Went to see Syriana today, with the fellowship. Brilliant. Simply brilliant. Yes of course it’s complicated and confusing, but that’s its great strength. The politics of oil is complicated. If you prefer simple narratives, unambiguous cause-and-effect, and clear heroes and villains, then stay away. You’ll just be frustrated.
George Clooney is wonderful. His eyes are the only part of him that reveal his reaction to the way his world is crumbling around him. Matt Damon’s portrayal of naivete is superb: his character convinces himself that he’s important, a real player, while all along he doesn’t have a clue about the nature of the forces at work. Both performances are Oscar-worthy.
I have to mention the photography. It’s breathtaking, especially the scenes in Beirut, Tehran, and the Gulf. There were moments when I just wanted to hit PAUSE in order to take in the view.
Above all, this is a film about betrayal – of colleagues, family, friends, country, ideals and oneself. It’s frightening how compelling it is.
(If you’re still confused, even after seeing the film, the entire script is available on the movie website.)