State of Play
Even playing a pudgy journalist, Russell Crowe is a total badass. Crowe carries every scene in the film and makes you want to continue watching this thriller. Ben Affleck is the only weak component of this otherwise compelling political thriller. State of Play won’t please everyone, but it certainly kept my interest.
When a Congressman’s assistant dies, a local newspaper investigates the incident. Russell Crowe’s character is involved with the Congressman’s family and has some history with his wife. The Congressman had an affair with his assistant. (That doesn’t sound like a current event does it?)
Part of the fun of the movie is the investigation into the murder. Plus, we also get to see a seasoned journalist dig into the story. We also see how a struggling newspaper tries to bring bloggers into the fold, and it also involves a blogger.
The movie has a great deal to say about journalism and private security forces. Sometimes, the movie does become a little too preachy at times. Luckily, it doesn’t become too annoying or like a Michael Moore movie.
The acting is top-notch, and the story is pretty good. With the exception of Ben Affleck’s acting and the twist at the end, the movie is better than many of the political thrillers in the past few years.
Grade: B 
Good movie. Crowe was excellent as ever, as was Mirram. Rachel Adams was good too, and even Ben Affleck wasn't too bad. I can't remember all the plot now as it's a while since I saw this in the cinema, but I remember being frustrated by the twist at the end. Maybe I didn't join up the dots enough, but the revelation didn't explain everything.
ReplyDeleteYeah, the twist at the end didn't make much sense, and it would have played better if they kept the story straight without the twist.
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