Argo

• R, 2 hr.
• Release Date: Oct 12, 2012

Based on true events, Argo chronicles the life-or-death covert operation to rescue six Americans, which unfolded behind the scenes of the Iran hostage crisis-the truth of which was unknown by the public for decades. On November 4, 1979, as the Iranian revolution reaches its boiling point, militants storm the U.S. embassy in Tehran, taking 52 Americans hostage. But, in the midst of the chaos, six Americans manage to slip away and find refuge in the home of the Canadian ambassador. Knowing it is only a matter of time before the six are found out and likely killed, a CIA "exfiltration" specialist named Tony Mendez (Ben Affleck) comes up with a risky plan to get them safely out of the country. A plan so incredible, it could only happen in the movies. -- (C) Warner Bros. 

Argo should be on your Oscar list this year. It's obvious to me that this gritty thriller, directed by Ben Affleck and based on a true story, has all the right ingredients of an Oscar favorite. Why?

1. It came out late in the year. This is Oscar season, so Hollywood is unleashing all their indie and art Oscar hopefuls upon the world.

2. The Academy loves movies directed by celebrities / actors. (Braveheart, A Beautiful Mind, Good Night and Good Luck., etc.)

3. It's based on a true story (Frost/Nixon, The Social Network, Avatar) Ok, just kidding about Avatar. But, you get the idea.

What did I think of it? Solid four stars. Argo is gritty in tone, ebbs with conviction and energy, and seethes forth with violence and threat of violence. It explains a chapter of American history with clear vision. It is suspenseful and the choices made by the characters all ring true. There are more than a few above average performances, including Alan Arkin and John Goodman as Hollywood insiders. Bryan Cranston fits right in as a CIA operative. Even Ben Affleck's performance as a government contracted "problem solver", despite critical attack by some viewers, stood above average to me. Affleck somehow transcends his early 80's poofy hair and wolfman beard to create a convincing and compelling character.

The directing and editing are the highlights of this film, in my opinion. Affleck has a passion for movie making that comes through every second and every frame. It's obvious that he's done his homework and explored all the details of this fascinating story. This, his third directorial success, should serve to galvanize his reputation as a top-notch Hollywood director.