Just saw The Good Shepherd. I would definitely recommend it. I did have issues with it - it's a complicated story, made more so by De Niro's (who directed) decision to jump around chronologically, the pacing was too slow at times, certain characters' motivations were murky to begin with and could have been better explained and Matt Damon remained unrealistically boyish looking while everyone around him aged.
Overall, however, De Niro managed to make a story about the sometimes mundane background work of the spy world which can then unpredictably, but inevitably explode in brutality, a gripping one. It also had some great performances - John Turturro, William Hurt, Billy Crudup and a new (to me) actress, Tammy Blanchard, I thought were particularly good. And, it is an age-old, but still fascinating and very chilling portrayal of how seemingly decent people can start off on the path of right and honor and morality, and be slowly and inexorably turned or turn themselves, into monstrous people capable of doing monstrous things.
--speaktruthtopower--
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I heard mixed reviews about this. Love Damon but don't know if even your review gets me their.
Have you seen The Departed or the Queen -- looking for a good flick this weekend.
Haven't seen the Queen, although, it has received universally great reviews, and I always love Helen Mirren. I thought the Departed was just okay, although with a few great performances.
I have to say, I am looking forward to seeing The Pursuit of Happyness. Haven't read any reviews yet, but have heard about Gardner's story and it sounds pretty inspiring.
Also, Casino Royale was actually quite good. And, I just went to see Borat once again last night (I know!!), but it was just as funny the second time.
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