Charlie Wilson's War (2007)

Directed by Mike Nichols
Written by Aaron Sorkin, based on the book by George Crile
Starring Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams

A drama based on a Texas congressman Charlie Wilson's covert dealings in Afghanistan, where his efforts to assist rebels in their war with the Soviets have some unforeseen and long-reaching effects.

The question of whether or not Charlie Wilson was a hero in real life is still up in the air. But we're not talking about real life here. We're talking about a movie. And regardless of how things happened in real life, in the film for all intents and purposes he is. And it is a brilliant depiction of the American political system and their views on helping other countries during war contrasted to their views on helping during reconstruction.

Tom Hanks shines as the foul mouthed, womanizing congressman who becomes the unlikeliest of diplomats in a covert operation. As usual, his comedic timing and charm are on point as he makes even the dirtiest of dirt balls likable.

With a Academy Award nomination for best supporting actor, Phillip Seymour Hoffman kills it as "the Zen Master" CIA agent that Charlie Wilson works with. It is a further example of the talent that was lost far too soon.

While, I guess you could technically call this film a "war movie", it is more a "behind the scenes" of a war, taking an in depth and interesting look into the politics that come with aiding another country fight. With amazing writing from the incomparable Aaron Sorkin, and outstanding performances by an amazing cast, "Charlie Wilson's War" is as entertaining as a movie where people just talk can get… You can take that however you like. But I personally enjoyed it.

My Rating: 7/10

Cold in July (2014)

Directed by Jim Mickle
Written by Nick Damici and Jim Mickle, based on the novel by Joe R. Lansdale
Starring Michael C. Hall, Sam Shepard, Don Johnson and Vinessa Shaw

After a man is forced to kill an intruder in his home, a man finds that he and his family are being stalked by the father of the man he killed. But he soon uncovers secrets that the Sheriff's department are hiding and teams up with the man who has been stalking him to find the truth.

An intense and dark psychological thriller where every discovery twists and turns the plot down a completely different path than it was on. Backed by great performances by the unlikely trio of Michael C. Hall, Sam Sheppard and Don Johnson, this film kept me on the edge of my seat.

The most frustrating thing with films nowadays is predictability. Yes, sometimes you can overlook it and still enjoy a movie. But to me, the best ones keep you questioning exactly what's going on. Throughout this movie, I was unsure of what would happen. Every time I thought it was going to go one way, it went in a completely other direction.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance film festival in 2014, it has been named with the several other greats from that year, including "Whiplash" and "The Skeleton Twins". It is just another example of the great films independent filmmakers can make.

My Rating: 7/10