Charlie Wilson's War

Up until last week, I would have to say that Charlie Wilson’s War had a terrible advertising campaign. I hardly saw any TV commercials, movie previews or even posters for this film. Of course, I didn’t need to view any footage to make me eager to see it, I only had to look at the three names attached: Hanks, Roberts Sorkin. Add in Philip Seymour Hoffman and the fine directing of Mike Nichols (The Graduate, Closer) and you’ve got the makings of a can’t-lose picture. Of course, the subject matter has to do with war in Afghanistan but who cares when these phenomenal artists are involved. There’s not even that much action in this film but again, who needs it with this type of pedigree.

If you’ve read my television reviews, you’ve probably picked up on the fact that I love everything Aaron Sorkin writes. He has this great ability to make meetings, briefings, and day-today operations highly entertaining. When watching Charlie Wilson’s War, you’ll definitely be reminded of the sharp dialogue found in many a West Wing episode. Of course the story is based on the non-fiction George Crile book of the same name and while is seems like many of the scenes have been over-exaggerated, they are pretty close to what really happened. Tom Hanks secured the movie rights soon after the 2003 publication but he thought it was too outrageous for the screen. Enter Aaron Sorkin who kept most of the craziness in his adapted screenplay and added that extra punch of dialogue. Of course it helps to have his clever exchanges coming out of the mouths of Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Tom Hanks beautifully channels the party-all-the-time demeanor of Texas congressman, Charlie Wilson. It’s interesting to note that other than Jim Lovell in Apollo 13, Hanks has never played a real-life historical figure on the big screen. Of course, Charlie Wilson is an unlikely hero with all his boozing and womanizing but Hanks makes him a treat to watch. The other treat in this film is the superb acting from Philip Seymour Hoffman. His surly CIA operative is hysterical with his quick comments and matter-of-fact candor. The best part of Charlie Wilson’s War is any scene that has Hoffman and Hanks sharing the screen. They are a fantastic comedy duo. There is this one scene when Wilson first meets Hoffman’s Gust Avrakotos (while trying to cover up a past indiscretion with the help of his Charlie’s Angels-type assistants) that is perfectly timed and carried out. I would have to use the word ‘gleeful’ to describe my reactions while watching this scene. It was the perfect mix of writing and acting. It’s one of my favourite scenes of the year.

Julia Roberts didn’t do much for me in this film. She still looks great in a bikini, and while it was fun to see her in this fun, over-the-top role, I didn’t think her scenes held up as well as the Hanks-Hoffman ones. Her verbal sparring with George Clooney in Ocean’s 11 packed a lot more punch than her ones with Hanks in this film. It seriously seemed like she was added to the cast as eye candy and awards bait. Speaking of eye candy, Amy Adams (Enchanted, Junebug) is fun to watch as Charlie Wilson’s efficient administrative assistant.

Like I said before, there is not much action in this film about the collapse of the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, but the conversations more than make up for it. Even though the movie takes place in the early eighties, you can start seeing the long-ranging effects on America today with their occupation of Iraq, but it’s only quietly expressed in side comments here and there. More recent films like Rendition, Lions for Lambs and The Kingdom have turned some people off with their comments on the current war situation, but this one shouldn’t offend. It’s further removed but still makes you think. I like movies that do that. You should see this film. If you liked West Wing, I’m sure you’ll love Charlie Wilson’s War. It goes down easy, like most of Wilson’s drinks.

Upcoming movie reviews: Sweeny Todd, Juno, Walk Hard