Saturday, June 6, 2009


MOVIE REVIEW
STATE OF PLAY
Sometimes the current state of news gathering gives one pause for thought. Where the tiniest piece of third hand gossip is passed as a headline making story the new electronic age has cheapened the once worthy profession. Although set in the here and now, State of Play harks back to a simpler time where the search for absolute and subjective truth was paramount. Based on the BBC series this lean thriller makes the most of its intriguing topic. When the body of a political research assistant is discovered, newspaper reporter Cal McAffrey (Russell Crowe) is suspicious. Discovering she was in the employ of his friend Congressman Stephen Collins (Ben Affleck), his journalistic instincts gathers apace. Assisted by internet blogger Della (Rachel McAdams), his investigative skills unearth a sordid political scandal involving hitmen and shadowy dealings. Relying on his wits and scrutineering abilities, Cal's life depends on seeing events through to the final newsprint. Kevin MacDonald's taut direction helps elevate State of Play's many ideas. Questioning acceptance of the visual facts presented and the value of true friendship, he pleas for his audience to maintain their inquisitive natures. Even though Cal's exploratory methods are less than perfect, he makes the effort to verify the information given. This sets up the main conflict between him and Della who, as part of a generation used to quickly absorbed news bites, reluctantly participates in his old fashioned methods. Like its protagonists, State of Play takes time in weaving through its many strands. As the reporters shape a narrative for their article, so too does the film slowly increasing the tension. Cast in roles well suited to their personalities, the actors bring genuine conviction in various journalistic/political personas so often portrayed as villains. Crowe in particular embodies street smart edge needed in order to stay ahead of his rivals and of those he trusts. These performances coupled with a strong screenplay create a potent lesson in embracing quality news in favour of instant hearsay. As newspapers currently begin their inevitable surrender to electronic media, State of Play could have the distinction of being one of the last films to portray the medium in its current entity. This might be a depressing thought for some, although as it proves there will always be those who will strive to maintain professional integrity in the face of any modern advances.

 Movie Review Rating Rating 8 / 10  

Movie Review by Patrick Moore State of Play home page click here

 State of Play released in Australia on Thursday 28th May 2009.

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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

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