The International (2009)

The International (2009)

2009 R 118 Minutes

Drama | Thriller | Crime

An interpol agent and an attorney are determined to bring one of the world's most powerful banks to justice. Uncovering money laundering, arms trading, and conspiracy to destabilize world governmen...

Overall Rating

7 / 10
Verdict: Good

User Review

  • The International is an extremely mature and meticulous conspiracy thriller. My adoration for cold realistic spy thrillers is well known. From the likes of John Le Carré film adaptations to technological conspiracy thrillers, there is something for everyone in this sub-genre. Despite the real world scenarios, these are not entirely accessible as many struggle to focus on the jargon and narrative structure. The International is that, but I do not see this as a detriment. Two special agents are tasked in investigating possible corruption within a fictional bank known as the IBBC. Anyone who gets close mysteriously disappear or meet their untimely demise, thus leading Interpol into believing illegal activity. Interestingly based on the BCCI scandal of 1986, it portrays how global finance can affect international politics. This is absurdly intelligent, I mean get ready to bring a notepad with you because by the end of this you will earn a degree in finance and politics. It is heavy. It is cold. It is not for everyone. Yet, it is constantly engaging. The script and direction really enhances this thriller to stand out above the rest...for the most part. Extremely concise dialogue. Fact one is interjected with fact two is then counteracted by fact three to only then be pushed aside by fact four. Super sharp and on point consistently. It's a riveting watch and entirely fascinating. Tom Tykwer's direction is clinically clean, and it suits this style of film. Focussing on the bright white architecture to enhance the grandeur of powerful corporations against one small man. The occasional action scenes were well filmed and edited. The shootout at the Guggenheim museum is one of the best ever and highly recommend you watch it. It's fast, tense and leaves you speechless. Especially when it comes out of nowhere! The production team constructed a replica of the museum, just so that they can rain bullets upon it. Now that is dedication. After this scene though, the plot dips and the film's conclusion is underwhelming...which is a shame. Not for everyone, but superbly made.