Review of In the Valley of Elah (2007) by Ash W — 19 Dec 2013

In the Valley of Elah revolves around Hank Deerfield (Tommy Lee Jones), a war veteran who relentlessly searches for his missing son, who is soldier that recently returns from the war in Iraq. The movie's premise incorporates and incites questions regarding the effects, realities, and controversies of the Iraq War and its aftermath, a touchy subject no doubt. Fortunately, director Paul Haggis does an exquisite job of limiting political views throughout, as he elaborately intertwines elements of mystery, uncertainty, and morality into the plot so as to persistently engross the viewer. This diverts attention away from the potential political hullabaloo of the film and allows us to enjoy its immensely engaging and heartbreaking story. In addition to that, a genuinely depicted aftermath of the war through the setting and circumstances, as well as references to divisive topics like post-traumatic stress disorder, is essential to the dramatic quality of the film. Through this, the viewer doesn't gain insight on the dehumanizing effects of war, but also deeply sympathizes for the characters and everyone affected.

Who better to play a war veteran with a fervent and obsessive determination to find his lost son than Tommy Lee Jones? Although the film features some fine acting from the whole cast, his performance stood out, as it was definitely one of his best in recent years. He perfectly expresses the anguish, concern, and compassion that would be present in any soldier's father. He makes us realize that, with any war, the greatest struggle is coping with the harsh realities that ensue. It's certainly difficult not to pity him knowing the magnitude of the circumstances. Furthermore, he truly convinces us that a similar experience has happened in his own life. There's more to war than the soldiers, a message that is powerfully conveyed in this dramatic and thought-provoking story of loss and morality.

Regardless of political standing, In the Valley of Elah is a wonderfully structured story of tragedy and realization. It is not your typical genre movie regarding war, for it contains messages and questions that everyone should consider. Despite its somewhat slow pace, I highly recommend watching this movie.