Good, not great - The Good Shepherd
January 4th, 2007 by Bill
Yes, it’s hard to believe but for the first time in ages I went to a theatre to see a movie (as opposed to watching it on DVD). I saw The Good Shepherd, starring Matt Damon and Angelina Jolie, directed by Robert De Niro. (And a lot of other very good actors appear in this film.)
A few passing thoughts … Most reviews are correct in saying it’s a good film, not a great one. I certainly enjoyed it though it was a bit long. I believe I saw somewhere the film described as “the birth of the C.I.A.” and I suppose in a sense that’s true but the film is really about Matt Damon’s character - who he is (something of a mystery) and why. The film, overall, is a spy/mystery thing and that keeps you wondering throughout (and afterwards) just what’s what and that is always engaging for me.
As for the theatre experience, two things stood out. One, it stank. Literally. Two, the picture wasn’t sharp. I kept thinking, “This will look much better at home on DVD.”
Indeed. And the room won’t smell either.
Tags: Angelina Jolie, Matt Damon
