Charlie Wilson's War
9 out of 10 Charlie Wilson (Tom Hanks) is a Congressman: one who likes a drink, likes the ladies, knows many influential people and is owed favours by more than a few. His friendship with Joanne Herring (Julia Roberts) brings him into contact with the President of Pakistan and an impromptu trip to the refugee camps filled with hundreds of thousands of displaced Afghans. Witnessing the plight of these families first hand prompts firm action from Wilson in support of the Mujahideen, leading to the withdrawal of Soviet troops in 1989 and ultimately to the current situation in Afghanistan. The film itself is beautifully produced, the script is full of sparkling, dry wit delivered expertly by Hanks and Philip Seymour Hoffman who plays CIA man Gust Avrakotos. These are two very fine performances, supported admirably by Roberts and Congressman Wilson's all female office staff. The cinematography delivers powerfully, particularly during Wilson's first visit to the camp in Northe...