Most of this piece provides hearty cinematic entertainment. The acting is strong, scripting intricate, cinematography solid, but it's really the direction that powers this engine. From the opening heart thumping sequence, the tension builds and almost never lets up.

"State of Play" is the feature film version of a British mini-series of the same name. Perhaps "Pen vs. Sword" would have made a more enticing title, or how about "Rock, Paper, AK47?" All act well, but kudos to Jason Bateman and Helen Mirren in supporting roles -- they nailed 'em.

Unfortunately, for me, the film overstays just a tad and takes just one turn too many. That last twist relieves the tension instead of tightening, further, it somewhat unravels, in retrospect, the previously artfully woven fabric of the film. Perhaps the final irony, the film which is full of characters forever worried of being manipulated, ultimately is guilty of manipulating its audience. Despite the less than powerful end to the picture, I left the theatre still moved by the bulk. That said, a day later, I feel less moved.

Actually, David Edelstein at New York Movies felt similarly, read his well written review here.

-- Books by Author/Illustrator Ross Anthony --