Body of Lies is a scary film because you are never certain what is going to happen next. Dicaprio excels as Ferris, middle-east-based CIA agent who actually likes being in the middle east. He and his counterpart, Crowe (as Hoffman), who is based stateside, are both seasoned espionage agents tracking a middle eastern bomber blowing up places in Europe. Deals and side deals, observers in crowds, cars following you, people talking quietly in groups. All this ratchets up the drama about who knows what, and who is being grabbed next. When you throw in a potential love interest for Dicaprio, that raises the tension and mystery yet more.
By far the surprise star is Mark Strong as Hani, the suave, debonair head of Jordanian security who has a symbiotic relationship with the CIA. They need each other, but who is using whom? Ferris tries to play both sides of the street by not lying to Hani, while working with Hoffman who would lie to anyone to get what he wants. Hani is terrific. When he steps in a room you don't know if he's going to sweet talk you, or rip your fingernails out.
Body of Lies has terrific acting throughout by the entire cast. The story is quite realistic. The cinematography is realistic, and the editing and directing keeps this espionage action drama moving along.
There are several violent scenes that might not be for the squeamish, so be warned. Otherwise, this film was terrific. Reminded me a lot of the Redford/Pitt film Spy Game. You will enjoy Body of Lies.
By far the surprise star is Mark Strong as Hani, the suave, debonair head of Jordanian security who has a symbiotic relationship with the CIA. They need each other, but who is using whom? Ferris tries to play both sides of the street by not lying to Hani, while working with Hoffman who would lie to anyone to get what he wants. Hani is terrific. When he steps in a room you don't know if he's going to sweet talk you, or rip your fingernails out.
Body of Lies has terrific acting throughout by the entire cast. The story is quite realistic. The cinematography is realistic, and the editing and directing keeps this espionage action drama moving along.
There are several violent scenes that might not be for the squeamish, so be warned. Otherwise, this film was terrific. Reminded me a lot of the Redford/Pitt film Spy Game. You will enjoy Body of Lies.