Zero Dark Thirty

Release Date: Jan 11, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 37 min. 
Director: Kathryn Bigelow 
Cast: Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Mark Strong, Joel Edgerton, Chris Pratt, James Gandolfini, Edgar Ramirez.

'The greatest manhunt in history' started with a belief. A belief that obsessive compulsion and dogged determination were all it took to reach end's goal. It took the belief of one woman...and with it brought forth the elimination of the world's most wanted fugitive. Influenced by the true events of the capture and demise of Osama bin Laden, "Zero Dark Thirty" is a rapt political thriller that's compelling to say the least. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow who brought us "The Hurt Locker," it's another edge-of-your-seat gripper that represents the fallouts of war. Intelligently written from an informative standpoint, the synopsis is one that connects with many. After the tragedy of 9/11 our nation sought compensation for the loss of security, and "Zero Dark Thirty" gravely recalls the events that transpired. Though the film can be construed as an ensemble piece thanks to the many personnel that make up the operation, it essentially falls upon the shoulders of Jessica Chastain who plays the central heroine. Her character's fixation with bin Laden is a cardinal turning point during the elusive manhunt, and the driving force for the bulk of the story. While Chastain has had her share of star-turning performances in supporting roles, it's her role as Maya that really demonstrates her abilities as leading lady, by way of her cool demeanor and steadfast attitude. As we follow her on a decade-long run of uncovering breadcrumbs, we discover that there's more to the story than meets the public eye. That being said, the actual raid that's so heavily depicted in the trailer doesn't actually occur until the very end, producing the climactic portion of the film. Despite knowing the fate of the assault, the suspense is not one to be discounted, as every creak and stir is felt in the deft silence. It bares a resemblance to fellow political thriller "Argo" whose plot was also predetermined in nature. Coincidentally, they also share an actor (Kyle Chandler) and composer (Alexander Desplat), making for a more interesting race in the win for Best Picture. While it's still too difficult to make a judgement call on which deserves the coveted statuette, my early vote is leaning towards "Argo" for its directing and ensemble casting. Either will be a win win over "Lincoln."

Rating: 5 stars