State of Play (2009)

Rating: 7.8 out of 10

State of Play is a 2009 American political thriller film adapted from the six-part British television show of the same name which aired on BBC One in 2003 with the plot’s location changed to Washington, D.C. It is directed by Kevin Macdonald and stars Russell Crowe as Cal McAffrey, Ben Affleck as Stephen Collins, Rachel McAdams as Della Frye, Robin Wright Penn as Anne Collins and Helen Mirren as Cameron Lynne. The story is about Cal, a journalist and his investigation into the suspicious death of a woman related to the Congressman Stephen Collins. It explores topical subjects like politics, power, media, journalism, war related contracts with private companies and privatization of American Homeland Security.

The crux of the movie lies in its plot with impetus by superb acting and fine direction. Russell Crowe portrays the character of a journalist swiftly dealing with the ambiguity of balances of life of a journalist and his main task of being an objective professional. Ben Affleck plays the moral politician too well to be sure and drives the suspense of the movie. Rachel McAdams shows the enthusiasm of an aspiring journalist. The direction by Macdonald of ‘The Last King of Scotland’ fame with the precise camera positions and handling gives the movie credibility of a thriller. The plot of the movie deserves acclaim for the surprises and the suspense it builds up.

Although, it was not as lauded as its original, but condensing a six-hour plot in a two-hour format has been done fairly well by Matthew Michael Carnahan, Tony Gilroy, Peter Morgan and Billy Ray, who wrote the screenplay for the movie and did a nifty job. They did not leave out substantial points and made a dandy thriller story.

Overall, the movie is gripping and provides for an amazing thrilling experience. It is a must watch for people who enjoy political or corporate conspiracies, journalistic investigation and are fans of Crowe, Affleck or Macdonald.