Argo
4.5 out of 5
From the production logos that open the film, Argo is a film that luxuriates in its recreation of the past, immersing itself in a late 70's/early 80's feel that gives the movie not only a rich sense of time and space, but also a feel that sets it apart from just about anything else out right now. Based on a true story, Argotells the story of an attempt made to rescue some embassy workers during the Iranian hostage crisis - an attempt that ended up involving the creation of a fake science-fiction film to give the CIA a way in and out of the country. That's a remarkable story - no less so because it's true - and while Affleck doesn't miss the chance to bring out some really strong comedy out of the Hollywood scenes, he also never lets the audience forget the stakes of the situation, nor the fate that awaited if the operation went south. In fact, from its riveting opening sequence, Argo makes sure the viewer is immersed in a dangerous world where Americans were hated and at risk of imprisonment at best, and public death might not even be the worst thing that could happen. Affleck was already impressing me with his first two directorial efforts, but Argoreally is the film that should make anyone shed any doubts about his talents. From the immersion in the time period to the long takes, from the grainy film stock to the naturalistic performances, Affleck's work is outstanding here, and the fact that he also perfectly nails the main role of the film is just icing on that cake. Argo definitely feels a little Hollywood-ized in its final act, as complication after complication rises up at the last minute, but it's to the film's credit that none of that detracts from how intense and riveting the film is in every scene. It really is a smart, nail-biting thriller, and a great piece of Hollywood filmmaking. It tells a fascinating story, and does so in a way that's interesting, intense, and wonderfully built in every detail. I absolutely loved it, and I'd recommend it wholeheartedly. - Josh Mauthe
