5: Argo
Like a lot of people, I recognize there’s something a little inspirational about Ben Affleck’s recent career trajectory, such that I was kind of happy he was the unexpected big winner at the Golden Globes (remember kids, you too can earn the respect of old white guys, no matter how pretty you are, or how many Daredevils you star in!).
As a director, Baffleck seems destined to be the next Eastwood; which is to say, his skill at attracting major talent, and solid material, will usually overshadow his work behind the camera. Argo’s cast is terrific, the pace is lively, and the script comes replete with cheeky, harmless digs at Hollywood that awards people seem to like. As with The Town, and Gone Baby Gone, though, it’s a film that feels every bit the product of its parts, and nothing more. It’s a workmanlike, meat ‘n potatoes piece of popcorn drama that’s overwhelmingly good, and only very occasionally great. It’s The Avengers for seniors.
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