Review of Zero Dark Thirty (2012) by Trevor R — 07 Feb 2014
Subtle, detail-oriented, and intelligent, "Zero Dark Thirty" is fascinating procedural that is, at times, brutally suspenseful. The character of Maya occasionally leans a bit too heavy into being the smartest woman in the room (A classic trope that you'll find in "Argo" as well), but Jessica Chastain sells it. Jason Clarke is equally excellent, offering some truly incredible and subtle moments of characterization (Just watch his face when he says that "naked guys" line).
There's a reductive quality to pinning the entire investigation almost entirely on one woman, but the trade-off is a rather poignant kind of emotional and metaphorical catharsis that comes with ONE WOMAN taking on the Taliban. It's kind of a catch-22, so your mileage may vary.
Also, a modicum of intelligence makes the films "stance" on torture clear (It certainly doesn't endorse it), so don't be swayed by the tabloid nonsense.
This review of Zero Dark Thirty (2012) was written by Trevor R on 07 Feb 2014.
Zero Dark Thirty has generally received very positive reviews.
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