Charlie Wilson's War (2007)
2007
R
102 Minutes
A drama based on Texas congressman Charlie Wilson's covert dealings in Afghanistan, where his efforts to assist rebels in their war with the Soviets had some unforeseen and long-reaching effects.
User Review
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WHAT I LIKED: 'Charlie Wilson's War,' is your usual Aaron Sorkin affair in that it has its characters deliver every sentence as a witty one-liner. However, the fact that style is used to follow Wilson and the CIA trying to convince Congressmen to help the Afghan resistance means it often brilliantly highlights how those at the top treat the middle East with careless contempt.
That said, the main thing keeping you hooked is, as ever, the speed of the whole thing, as Sorkin achieves what Scorsese always tries by delivering a genuinely breakneck movie that you simply can't keep your eyes off. With great performers chewing so much scenery that bite marks start showing in the sets, and the competent hands of director Mike Nichols bringing it to life, you've ultimately got yourself another truly dazzling show of a movie that's never afraid of showing off.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: It does have to be said that Sorkin's style leaves little room for serious character development, and it's equally far too sentimental about its lead character to reach the kind of satirical commentary of, say, the 'Doctor Strangeloves' of this world.
VERDICT: 'Charlie Wilson's War,' is another incredibly dazzling but ultimately shallow showcase from Aaron Sorkin.0 member like this review.
