ARGO

Ben Affleck is at the top his game, not only in acting but in directing as well.  Argo is the third film that Affleck has directed (His first two were Gone Baby Gone and The Town) and it doesn’t disappoint.  As he showcased in his first two films, Affleck is a master at capturing emotion and suspense, but what's amazing is how differently he can do it.

Gone Baby Gone presented such a dilemma that as a viewer you were rooting for Casey Affleck’s character but were torn between what was right and what was ethical.  In The Town the emotion was much more subtle; it centered on Affleck’s relationship with his father, which wasn’t shown or spoke of often.  However, Argo takes the emotion and suspense to a whole new level.  In the final 20 minutes of the film you will catch yourself holding your breath and tensing your entire body (Warning: If you are with your husband/wife, boyfriend/girlfriend, or significant other, your hand or arm may hurt from the grip of your partner).

Not only is Affleck incredible in the lead role of CIA operative Tony Mendez, but he is surrounded by outstanding performances, namely that of Bryan Cranston as Jack O’Donnell.  Cranston is really incredible and gives a moving performance as Affleck’s boss.  Alan Arkin and John Goodman don’t disappoint either as Hollywood moviemakers Lester Siegel and John Chambers respectively.  They provide a healthy portion of the comic relief in the film; and believe me, they’re very funny.  The entire cast is phenomenal and they do a fantastic job of getting into character.

The acting is superb, the cinematography is beautiful, and the screenplay is flawless.  Argo is easily one of the best films of the year and possibly the decade.  In my personal Oscar nominations it’s up for Best Picture, Best Director & Best Actor (Ben Affleck), and Best Supporting Actor (Bryan Cranston). 

-“Argo f*** yourself!”