CLEVER FILM. (The Recruit (DVD))

Member Name: thingywhatsit

Product:	The Recruit (DVD)
Date:	08/09/05 (162 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Twists that keep you guessing.

Disadvantages: None.

Recently I watched a 2003 film, the Recruit, and very often am disappointed by movies. However, this one was the exception to the rule. Starring Al Pacino and Colin Farrell, the story begins in a bar, where a young man is about to make a fortune using his computer skills, but is offered an alternative career which pays less, but has the American promise of fulfilment and duty to home and country, working for the CIA.

This is a clever film, and one in which Al Pacino's character, a recruiter for the CIA, is convincing and manipulative, distant and devious, and what follows is a story where things are never as they seem.

Colin Farell's part is a tailor made one for him, and works well with a mere touch of romance thrown in with his co-star, Bridget Moynihan.

Directed by Roger Donaldson of "No Way out" fame, I would say that the direction plays a great part in the film, coupled with a good script, and well chosen players, making this story one in which the viewer participates, in that there are conclusions to be drawn as the story unfolds, although the plot doesn't insult the intelligence of the viewer, though does make it question the direction in which the film is going.

To give away much of the plot would spoil the film, though it's moral fibre and subject matter touch on the questions of loyalty in such a way that the viewer is forever wondering, and is left guessing to the end.

Words that describe this film to me ?

Intelligent, sometimes ironic, sometimes testing human stamina, but always enjoyable.

Take a look. It may be two years old, but it equals if not surpasses many films which have more hype and perhaps better advertising.

Bought on Amazon.com for as little at seven pounds, this really is a bargain and one that will stay on the shelf for a further viewing.

PG13 though I would question whether a child of 13 would fully appreciate the integrity of the film. An adult audience would suit it better.

Enjoy.

Summary: A surprisingly good film.