State of Play (it on DVD)

Posted by Movie_Maven

April 28, 2009 |

For our weekly date, Mr_Movie_Maven and I went to see “State of Play” (2009) with Russell Crowe, Rachel MacAdams (I swear, I didn’t even recognize her!), Ben Affleck, Robin Wright-Penn and Helen Mirren and directed by Kevin MacDonald.

Apparently this film is based upon a BBC miniseries of which I have never heard, which probably contributed to the highly convoluted story and several subplots within. Now, I’m a HUGE Russell Crowe fan but he did look a bit too disheveled in this role; however, he still looked better than Affleck who has seemed to age a bit quicker than normal.) There is quite a bit of political intrigue and suspense; however, some of it is not explained fully enough so there was an element of confusion. If a movie confuses me, then there are definitely plot holes because I like to think I’m pretty perceptive. The character development wasn’t as good as it could have been; again attributed to being based upon a TV series. Of them all, Mirren’s character had some of the best dialogue and while I do like Wright-Penn, I haven’t seen her in any role of substance since “The Princess Bride.”

At any rate, it was entertaining enough and will eventually be added to my Russell Crowe movie collection upon release to DVD (I have them ALL, you know!) This film would be as good on DVD so save your money for a rental or a PPV viewing.