Jan Wahl Movie Review: 'Argo'
(KCBS) – KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews Ben Affleck's "Argo," also starring Alan Arkin, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Rory Cochrane and Christopher Denham.
KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:
ARGO (R)
Movies are at their best with a strong narrative, story and characters to invest in and take us on that cinematic ride worth our time and money. Argo does just that: a powerful dramatic thriller, with comic relief played for the truth of the story itself.
It chronicles the life-and-death, covert operation to rescue six Americans during the Iranian Hostage Crises of late 1979. When the American Embassy is stormed, we see many American hostages taken, but six manage to find their way to the Canadian Ambassador. Back in America, a CIA 'ex-filtration' specialist comes up with an outrageous plan to get them out.
Ben Affleck directs and stars, keeping the action and even the humor well paced and completely engrossing. He never upstages or grandstands, nor does Bryan Cranston, Alan Arkin, John Goodman or any of the other actors and actresses.
Even the Hollywood segments keep it real. Be sure to stay during the final credits. Four hats.
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Two good documentaries playing right now:
The Other Dream Team, about the 1992 Lithuanian Men's Basketball team, and "Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has To Travel.
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