an intelligent film that captivates from start to finish
Reviewed by yellowjacket for State of Play at 2009-09-17 00:17:13
The intrigue, conspiracy and drama present in this movie are off the charts. It's truly an intelligent film that captivates from start to finish. I didn't particularly like the final twist but it all makes sense. On a structural note, I find it ironic that the crusading media is portrayed as the constant moral compass and is the hero of the film when, in real life, journalism is now all about the presentation of different levels of liberal falsities. As for the performances, Russell Crowe and the ENTIRE cast are simply superb... everyone is top level talent on the top of their game. I can't remember a recent movie where the supporting players are this good. Jason Bateman, Jeff Daniels and even Helen Mirren have very small roles but all have a huge impact on the film. Affleck and McAdams do a great job as well.
Brilliantly acted and deeply moving
Reviewed by x495 for Doubt at 2009-08-15 15:52:02
Doubt is this year's most well-acted drama. The plot revolves around a small Catholic school in the city where a seemingly friendly priest named Father Flynn is accused of molesting a young African-American boy. Sister Aloysius (Meryl Streep) is on his case immediately while Sister James, (Amy Adams) another nun sides with the priest. The verdict is decided by the audience. All three actors deliver what they're best at: top notch acting. Also with an engaging, fascinating plot Doubt deserved its Oscar nominees one hundred percent