Film Review: Body of Lies

Body of Lies
Directed by Ridley Scott
Released October 10, 2008

After the disappointment of last year’s “American Gangster,” the last collaboration between director Ridley Scott and supporting actor Russell Crowe, and the relative lack of buzz when this movie came out, my hopes weren’t too high. “Body of Lies” turned out to be a pleasant surprise. It’s an unexpectedly clever, action-packed thriller. It’s more effective than perhaps it should be because it emphasizes action and excitement over thorough dramatic plotting. Taken as a less serious movie, it’s a more pleasurable experience. It’s lengthy, but the intensity of the movie is pretty uniform throughout. This film isn’t about the acting, though Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe are great fits for their respective roles. A particularly impressive acting tour de force comes from British actor Mark Strong as the man to talk to if you need to get something done in Jordan. “Body of Lies” is certainly a fun movie, and if expectations aren’t set that high, it is sure to please.

B