Simon Marcus

lt's difficult to avoid the sense that this could have been a significantly better movie. Focused on the tensions of the Cold War, the story could have been treated more substantively, leaning less on action movie clichés and more on a vivid dramatization of global relations as they were actually played out. However, the performances are solid, particularly from Ben Afleck and the incomparable Morgan Freeman, an actor incapable of uttering an inauthentic line. Watch the movie as an entertaining and often suspenseful disaster pic, not a mature drama.

The jaded professional reviews of this movie shouldn't guide anyone's decision on viewing it. lt's a fascinating story, expertly told. The plot is suspenseful, the performances are first-class (what else would one expect from Judi Dench, and the others complement her), the settings are utterly authentic, the direction is masterly. All in all, an immensely satisfying movie. Those carping critics have spent too much time in the dark.

Stunning performances by Mirren and McKellen, two aging virtuosi at the top of their game. Surrounded by a capable cast, they blaze. Tension buids steadily, but delectable wit provides leavening, especially in the first third. The twists are startling, and the eventual denouement is a jaw-dropper. This is a movie that keeps on giving, right up to the credits. The RT rating is inexplicable. Not to be missed if you have a taste for dramatic substance.