Charlie Wilson's War is a Hollywood heavyweight. Starring box-office gold in Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts, with a screenplay by Aaron Sorkin and directed by Mike Nichols, it punches its weight, providing a smart and funny knockout. For those who contend political dramas are invariably humorless, CWW disproves that notion, centering as it does on the very engaging Charlie Wilson (Tom Hanks). But the real star is Philip Seymour Hoffman whose portrayal of the brilliant and acerbic CIA op Gust Avrakotos imbues the film with a withering wit and potent energy.
Adapted from George Crile's bestselling novel, Charlie Wilson's War is based on the true story of three unlikely collaborators whose efforts to help arm the Afghan Mujahideen ultimately leads to Russia's defeat in Afghanistan. Charlie Wilson, known as "Good time Charlie," was a liberal Democratic congressman from Texas who enjoyed the perks his position provided, like partying with strippers in a hot tub in Las Vegas. He also staffs his office with beautiful women, including his assistant Bonnie Bach (Amy Adams), with the justification "You can teach them to type, but you can't teach them to grow tits."
With a ready charm, Charlie is more inclined to serve his own cause than any important political one, but that changes with a call from Texas socialite Joanne Herring (Julia Roberts) with whom he's on more than intimate terms. Indignant at Russia's invasion of Afghanistan, she arranges for Charlie to visit Pakistan's President Zia (Om Puri), whose country is providing refuge for fleeing Afghans. The sight of the camps and the horrific stories of its inhabitants prompt Wilson into action. With congress unwilling to get involved in the war, Wilson undertakes a covert operation, engaging the services of the renegade CIA agent Avrakotos, who possesses a comprehensive knowledge of the weapons required to assist the Afghan rebels in their war against the Russians.
Sorkin, who provided an irreverent and insightful view of life in the White House with The West Wing, offers an equally satirical take on the workings of congress, illuminating the unwieldy nature of the institution and the corrupt and manipulative practices of its members. Nichols oversees proceedings with consummate direction that contrasts a lightness of touch with clarity and a welcome succinctness. Hanks is perfect casting as the affable congressman, while Roberts is equally well suited to the role of the formidable and glamorous Herring. A successful combination of intelligent and entertaining, Charlie Wilson's War possesses all the ingredients worthy of consideration in the upcoming awards, with Hoffman surely in need of clearing space on his mantelpiece.
Kevin Murphy
