ARGO

Overall Impression – Surprisingly slight, but still effective thriller. THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who is your main character? – CIA agent Tony Mendez. What is he trying to accomplish? –  Physical – Get the hidden embassy workers out of Iran without getting killed.  Emotional – Stay connected with his estranged son.  Spiritual – Show that he’s a competent agent (though… Continue reading ARGO

TAKEN

Overall Impression – Liam Neeson brings this slick action flick to another level.  THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s your main character? – Bryan Mills. What’s he trying to accomplish? – Professional: rescue his daughter, Kim.  Personal: rescue Kim.  Private: prove to himself that he still has a place in Kim’s life. Who’s trying to stop him?… Continue reading TAKEN

DEFIANCE

Overall Impression – An illuminating look at the tensions present amongst a totally displaced people.     THE FOUR QUESTIONS Who’s your main character? – Tuvia Bielski. What’s he trying to accomplish? – Professional: lead the Jewish survivors to safety.  Personal: keep his brothers together, as a family.  Private: hold onto the will to fight. Who’s trying… Continue reading DEFIANCE