Do not evaluate this against the made-for-TV SOP. This is a stand-alone, different story - superb (as-perfect-as-they-get) movie, acting, directing, action and very timely current events. MUST SEE! RC is in top form and makes it all worth while. Don't miss this director -he is great.

State of Play was the best Washington, DC-type political thriller I've seen in a long time. Not everything about the movie was good, but it definitely succeeds in building suspense and creating characters and a story the viewer cares about. There was at least one twist too many in the plot, and I'm not totally sure that it all hangs together (never mind whether it's plausible or not) in the end, but all in all, there's very little to complain about. I actually preferred this to Michael Clayton, which was similar but a little less tense and less confusing.

I went into this movie with great expections, and they were all exceeded. The plot is really great, deep, and interesting. It's nice to go to a movie that has more meaning that some buildings exploding or teenagers gossiping. The cast is extraordinary, especially Crowe, Bateman, and even McAdams. I was impressed with the development of the characters, despite the fact that the cast of main characters was so large! Overall, this movie is amazing, but it is NOT for everyone. This movie is somewhat complicated and, oddly enough, I think the PG-13 rating should be the rating for the age at which children will understand this movie. Kids will not understand it, and I'm betting some young teenagers won't either. For adults, it's a relief--a relief to finally see a movie with an intriguing plot, accomplished actors, and a spin that will make anyone spin. I highly recommend this movie, but seeing it on the big screen isn't a necessity.

Now I am the type of person that makes sure that he really wants to see a movie before he goes and spends 20 bucks. Now Ive seen the vast majority of russel crowe's films; and I knew this would be no exception. Mr. Crowe blew me away! His characters intellegence and able to react to the current situation was amazing. The movie itself was an exilerating action thriller. I was always on the edge of my seat wondering what lead, or twist would happen next. I am seriously expecting this movie to be up for a lot of awards. If you haven't seen this movie yet.... all I have to say is that you will not be dissapointed. Don't be turned away by the so-so rating for this movie. Final Grade: A+

Russell and Affleck do their jobs decently but I absolutely detest the tired old leftist take on things that the soldier is the most detestable, mindless drone on the planet. But what else would you expect from true lefty drones like Affleck, Damon, Tim Robbins and others of their ilk. Always demonizing soldiers and the founding fathers principles.