Movie Commentary: Charlie Wilson's War

I saw this movie yesterday. I know... I know... it's been out for a while. However, I figured I'd avoid the crowds. Not a chance - I still had to sit on the top row! However, it was well worth it.

If you're going to see this movie, know this: It's VERY good. The acting is top-notch, and the writing is even better. While I'm always a little leery of people who portray "Texans," I did think that Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts were a little "over the top" with their accents.

If you don't know the story, you'll definitely leave with a great appreciation of what was done to stop the Soviets in Afghanistan. I remember Charles Wilson during his reign as a congressman from Lufkin. However, I didn't know how much he really accomplished until after seeing this movie.

Tom Hanks did a fantastic job portraying him. This is the 2nd "real lifer" that I can think of that Tom Hanks has portrayed - the first being Astronaut Jim Lovell in Apollo 13. He showed depth to Wilson, which I don't think many people thought he had if they had known him. His passion and devotion to helping the Afghans was incredible.

Roberts and Philip Seymour Hoffman did a good job, too. Roberts did a good job showing what a Houston socialite looks like (at least in my eyes), and Hoffman was hilarious as a gruff CIA anaylst.

For those who may be a bit on the conservative side, just know that there is quite a bit of language in this movie... Oh, and the opening scene is an eye-opener. Ha!

Overall, it was a really good movie. I'd probably give it 4 stars out of 5. Now, if you're wanting to see one that is better in my eyes in theaters, go see Juno! That one is excellent!