Review of Rendition (2007) by Jon S — 17 Nov 2009

And now, for something rather terrifying . . .

"Rendition" is the answer to Jack Bauer's pro-torture arguments in "24". Of course, when it comes to fiction, the storytellers will craft a story that supports their stance and paints their opponent's in the worst possible light. Jack never tortures anyone who isn't really hiding something. In "Rendition", Jake Gyllenhaal finds himself witness to the torture of a guy who's actually innocent.

So it just boils down to whether you believe torturing innocents is a necessary risk in order to stop the actual bad guys. Discuss.

As far as the movie goes, it's pretty much perfect --- other than the Hollywoodism of having Reese Witherspoon and Peter Sarsgaard having been romantically involved in the past --- and it features one of those rare twists that a) The movie doesn't hang its climax on b) You don't anticipate at all. The story keeps you on the edge of your seat, then throws you for a little loop, then wraps everything up nicely and you find yourself cheering for some people. Good stuff.

Now, for a real twist: The director, Gavin Hood, is the man responsible for . . . X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Consider my mind blown.