Viewed in
2012
Formats
Movie theater.
Premise
As the Iranian revolution reaches a boiling point, a CIA 'exfiltration' specialist concocts a risky plan to free six Americans who have found shelter at the home of the Canadian ambassador.
Liked
Unexpectedly funny scenes. Everything in general.
Thoughts
I was surprised by the amount of humor throughout the story. Most of it came from Alan Arkin as the bitter, grizzled movie producer who decides to help the CIA, but there was also some hilarious moments by the serious people due to the absurdity of the circumstances. I very much enjoyed the jabs at Hollywood, but it was also very restrained, never letting it get in the way of the plot.
This film literally had no weak points. The direction was clear and everything was easy to follow. Performances were strong, especially Arkin. Characters were fully fleshed-out. Obstacles were formidable and believable. For me, the opening sequence was when the film was at its best. It captured the time and place, set the table for what the protagonists were up against, and was flat out intense.
I wanted to love this movie, but couldn't. And honestly, I don't know why. The only thing I can think of was that I knew how it ended, so despite director Ben Affleck's best attempt to show how dire the mission was, I never got caught up in the suspense (aside from the opening).
Argo was a super-solid and very enjoyable film. I can see why it's got Oscar buzz, not that my heart agrees.
