The Good Sheppard

I have been eagerly awaiting this film’s arrival to the theaters for nearly two months now. It is finally here!…December 22, 2006. So what did I do? I went to the 1 o’clock showing, sat in the middle aisle by myself, and enjoyed every minute.

The film chronicles the formation of the Central Intelligence Agency from its’ infancy during the Second World War through the Bay of Pigs debacle. Though the broader plot is the creation of the Central Intelligence Agency, it is through the eyes of an Edward Wilson, played by Matt Damon, that the story unfolds. From secret meetings at Yale University, to London subways during the Blitzkrieg, to the sandy beaches of Guatemala Edward Wilson is present as the steady arm of American intel. Along his journey Mr. Wilson meets up with British Counter-Intelligence officers (Billy Crudup), high ranking American Generals (Robert Di Nero), F.B.I. agents (Alex Baldwin), and a slew of other shadows of the clandestine service.

I found the film thoroughly intriguing and a more honest view of what counter-intelligence must have been like fifty years ago. There are no car chases, shootouts, fancy gadgets, but rather a man using his wit and analytical reasoning to make it from one situation to another. The film also mixes in the intricacies of holding a marriage, being a father, and the loneliness of isolation in a world where trust is always in question.

First time director Robert Di Nero does a fabulous job at re-creating the times as well as using plot to drive a well put together spy movie. Matt Damon is cold as ice and plays the role so well. Angelia Jolie is on par as the daughter of privilege and the wife of a man who is never there. Alec Baldwin delivers another solid supporting role this year. Though I believe the one who stole the show was Sir Michael Gambon, as the poet/spy Dr. Fredericks. Many may not be able to sit for nearly three hours without hearing the sound of gunfire or see an excessive explosion sequence, but for those who truly enjoy the world of politics, power, and espionage this movie is perfect.

Trailer - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaKGCLTmqTg&mode=related&search=