Charlie Wilson's War
Universal Pictures | Release Date: December 21, 2007
6.7
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 166 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
110
Mixed:
40
Negative:
16
Watch Now
Stream On
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Expand
Review this movie
VOTE NOW
 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Check box if your review contains spoilers 0 characters (5000 max)

User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
7
HalfwelshmanMay 29, 2012
First and foremost, Charlie Wilson's War is extremely well-performed, with Tom Hanks giving his best performance in years as the Texas Congressman who transforms from an irresponsible playboy scumbag to a moralistic defender of Afghanistan.First and foremost, Charlie Wilson's War is extremely well-performed, with Tom Hanks giving his best performance in years as the Texas Congressman who transforms from an irresponsible playboy scumbag to a moralistic defender of Afghanistan. Julia Roberts also impresses as Joanne Herring, a manipulative and religious socialite, as does Philip Seymour Hoffman playing the maverick CIA operative Gust Avrakotos. Aaron Sorkin's script is an absolute joy, full of fun, energy and satire not only of the past, but the present as well. It's really a wonder why the events shown are not more widely known about, or heavily appropriated for film, as "the largest covert operation in history" makes for cinematic gold. Everyone thinks of this fascinating period of history as simply another war (albeit without actual military engagements) between the USA and the USSR, and it's easy to forget how many other countries were drawn into this conflict between two superpowers. The film does attempt to address this oversight in cinema, and its hugely gratifying to witness lesser-known history on the big screen. The finale is a little generic and disappointing in comparison to the rest of the film, and you could certainly ccuse director Mike Nichols and Sorkin for presenting a rather rose-tinted view of the controversial Wilson. Though the congressman's intentions may have been noble, you cannot ignore the fact that he lent substantial support to groups and individuals whose intentions were decidedly less so. Romanticised though it may be for the sake of empathy and dramatic resonance, the film is still an enjoyable insight into an extraordinary figure in the history of international politics, and a fitting and intelligent tribute to a man who many remember with much admiration.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
7
csw12May 16, 2014
Besides oversimplifying serious and complex subject matters, Charlie Wilson's War brings a unique style of filmmaking that mixes comedy and seriousness in a way that becomes fun.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
The3AcademySinsJun 17, 2018
Charlie Wilson's War is a well written, well performed, and engaging true story of the United States's involvement in helping Afghanistan resist the Soviet Union, as well as the far-reaching consequences of this action. It's a veryCharlie Wilson's War is a well written, well performed, and engaging true story of the United States's involvement in helping Afghanistan resist the Soviet Union, as well as the far-reaching consequences of this action. It's a very entertaining movie that brings enjoyment and enlightenment to some very serious and complicated issues. It may be too simple sometimes, but Aaron Sorkin does a great job navigating the political quagmire with his script. Tom Hanks is incredible, and really shines in this role. Philip Seymour Hoffman also has a great supporting part, and is a joy to watch. I definitely recommend this film to fans of political drama.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
8
kingshahidJul 27, 2011
This movie was hilarious and considering the fact that it was based on politics made it even more amusing. I was not expecting what I got out of this movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
StephenS.Apr 30, 2008
If you can turn your brain off, its something funny and soap-opera great. If you can't you soon realize it's nothing more than a good comedy about the actions that lead to 9/11.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
THWJan 2, 2008
The acting by Hoffman is superb. He steals every scene that he's in and provides a great foil to Hanks. The film moves at a good pace, keeps you entertained, and tells a good story based on real events.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
J.OttoJan 6, 2008
What a briliant movie to point out a flawed strategy. Take this in and think about current events. Thought provoking and humorous!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
OliverC.Jan 9, 2008
Suffers from its lack of poignancy. When did Hoffman become such a beast? His acting is awesome to watch (Unfortunately, his make-up is not). This movie has no idea what its trying to say and ends up pulling out some kind of meaning out of Suffers from its lack of poignancy. When did Hoffman become such a beast? His acting is awesome to watch (Unfortunately, his make-up is not). This movie has no idea what its trying to say and ends up pulling out some kind of meaning out of nowhere in the final scenes. It celebrates war, womanizing and good old irresponsibility only to reprimand the viewers at the end. Forgive me for wanting more in a political comedy.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
KevinA.Dec 30, 2007
It's nice to see a well made portrayal of how many operations within the American government *really* work: with handshakes, not votes. I'm glad the public is being shown an image of the reality behind many of these men in It's nice to see a well made portrayal of how many operations within the American government *really* work: with handshakes, not votes. I'm glad the public is being shown an image of the reality behind many of these men in Washington. Hoffman is amazing as usual and Tom Hanks does quite a good job. Overall a good movie. They passed up the perfect opportunity to mention Bin Laden (an active member of the Mujahadeen that Charlie Wilson funded). If they had mentioned him, even in passing, the movie would have been a grand slam!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
AlexBJan 10, 2008
You could spend a worse 90 minuntes for sure - Roberts and Hanks are reliable, Hoffman is wonderful. The events are simplified, but then its not a documentary, so people should get over that. My only real criticism is that I felt all the You could spend a worse 90 minuntes for sure - Roberts and Hanks are reliable, Hoffman is wonderful. The events are simplified, but then its not a documentary, so people should get over that. My only real criticism is that I felt all the charicters were fairly two dimensional charicatures - the socialite, the playboy, the CIA man - none of them seemed very real and Hanks can't help but put a comedy twist on everything - even a chronic alcoholic in charge of a $1 billion dollar arms budget.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BrianF.Jan 1, 2008
Great and fun movie. Particularly fun for "inside the Beltway" folks. Tom Hanks is terrific!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JeffJ.Jan 13, 2008
First, it was funnier than I expected. I guess you shouldn't be surprised by an "expose" of what being a Congressman is like but Hanks' portrayal of the womanizing Wilson is good (although he did seem less into women than someone First, it was funnier than I expected. I guess you shouldn't be surprised by an "expose" of what being a Congressman is like but Hanks' portrayal of the womanizing Wilson is good (although he did seem less into women than someone who hires them for their looks would be). The real prize here is Phillip Seymour Hoffman, who plays the CIA analyst that partners with Wilson to bring weapons to the Afghan mujahedeen. It's very entertaining and has no dull spots. Trying to tell a complex real-life story like this in a 2 hr movie is hard and this is the film's only weakness IMO.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DanB.Jan 2, 2008
Despite a few structural flaws, it is highly enjoyable--well written, well acted, funny, and occasionally even poignant. For what more can one ask, really? Hmmm?
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
nickg.Jan 2, 2008
Tom Hanks is always watchable, but the story is told in totaly exposition. Few laughs. Little new insight.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
DanaM.Jan 7, 2008
I thouroughly enjoyed this movie. Tom Hanks was great as usual. Historically it may not have held the line but was well worth my ten bucks. Lots of laughs and eye-opeing as well to the Afghan/Soviet conflict. See it!. And avoid Sweeney Todd I thouroughly enjoyed this movie. Tom Hanks was great as usual. Historically it may not have held the line but was well worth my ten bucks. Lots of laughs and eye-opeing as well to the Afghan/Soviet conflict. See it!. And avoid Sweeney Todd at all costs.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PatP.Feb 24, 2008
This movie is way underrated. The story is compelling, there's plenty of action without gratuitous violence, and the acting is excellent.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
LindaW.Apr 26, 2008
Very different roles for Hanks and Roberts, but very good also. Interesting characters in this interesting and true story.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
KevinMay 18, 2008
This movie is horrifically overrated. The acting was at times diabolical, direction was very poor....script was almost as cheesy and cringe inducing as Bobby. I seriously don't understand the praise this is getting, sure the subject This movie is horrifically overrated. The acting was at times diabolical, direction was very poor....script was almost as cheesy and cringe inducing as Bobby. I seriously don't understand the praise this is getting, sure the subject matter is VERY interesting, but deserves a much more intelligent piece of work than this. Poor.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
RichR.May 3, 2008
Is Tom Hanks supposed to have a Texas accent in this? What a joke. He sounds like Robert E Lee.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
StewartKJun 29, 2008
I can scarce remember a better character than Gust Avrakotos in an american film. Kudos to Aaron Sorkin.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DianeMariaB.Dec 23, 2007
A very snappy movie written by Sorkin. Wow! Philip Seymour Hoffman completely steals the movie from Hanks and Roberts, which doesn't seem as if it would be that easily done. I can't wait to see it again!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RichardW.Dec 25, 2007
Witty cynical rendition of real history
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
BillyS.Dec 27, 2007
Whimsical take on a U.S. Congressman(Hanks), his wealthy socialite backer (Roberts), and the CIA (Hoffman) and their covert operation in financing the Afghan rebels to force the Russians out after their bloody invasion in the 80's. Mike Whimsical take on a U.S. Congressman(Hanks), his wealthy socialite backer (Roberts), and the CIA (Hoffman) and their covert operation in financing the Afghan rebels to force the Russians out after their bloody invasion in the 80's. Mike Nichols avoids all serious overtones of the subject with the same touch he used in Primary Colors, funny wise-cracking script, great cast, excellent pacing that ends with probably 75% of the audience smiling and not having a clue that the rebels we helped saved the day for would soon after become The Bin Laden Gang, and we don't know the end to that one yet!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MikeNDec 27, 2007
"Based on a true story" should be kept in mind, less some people take this for a history lesson without doing any of fact checking on their own. Tom Hanks creates a loveable alcoholic, womanizing underdog that you can
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
EllenC.Dec 30, 2007
Tightly edited with Sorkin's witty, rapid fire dialogue, this is a fine film with wonderful performances. It is a shame that the marketing campaign emphasizes the party-girl background because there seems to be a fear that anything Tightly edited with Sorkin's witty, rapid fire dialogue, this is a fine film with wonderful performances. It is a shame that the marketing campaign emphasizes the party-girl background because there seems to be a fear that anything political--or referring to war in the Mideast--will tank at the box office. Loved it!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
C.B.Dec 30, 2007
PSH rules this film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
SteAJan 13, 2008
Thoroughly enjoyable movie. P.S Hoffman is brilliant. Plenty of laugh's, despite the serious undercurrent of the movie. Doesn't drag on like far too many movies do. Definitely worth a look.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MattJan 14, 2008
I enjoyed this movie, Decent plot enjoyable humor.... It felt a little short and rushed in the end. the lines were laugh out loud outrageous, and all in all, It was a good Saturday evening flick. I guess sometimes movies are the experience I enjoyed this movie, Decent plot enjoyable humor.... It felt a little short and rushed in the end. the lines were laugh out loud outrageous, and all in all, It was a good Saturday evening flick. I guess sometimes movies are the experience they bring . And sometimes a good date can make a movie so much more satisfying… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JohnB.Jan 18, 2008
Though philosophically flawed (as pointed out by other commentators), it focuses on several important issues very effectively. It is entertaining, although about matters too serious to laugh at. In that way reminiscent of Dr Strangelove.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MattL.Jan 19, 2008
Well-written, with characters that portray humanity in all its shame, splendour and excellence.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
SueC.Feb 24, 2008
It made me long for the good-old-days of the cold war. Well, not really but almost; certainly for books and movies about that era. I could have done without the bathos of the visits to the refugee camps.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MartinS.Mar 2, 2008
It should be noted that one of the Afghan Rebels was Osama Bin Laden. Another case of U.S. foreign policy coming back to bite us in the rear. I wonder who will rise from the dust of "Shock and Awe?"
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
TimHJun 29, 2008
Anyone who doesn't give this movie an 8, 9, or 10 must not have gone to the movies lately. This movie is funny, intelligent and the acting goes from very good (Hanks and Roberts) to great (Hoffman). It also is about real life important Anyone who doesn't give this movie an 8, 9, or 10 must not have gone to the movies lately. This movie is funny, intelligent and the acting goes from very good (Hanks and Roberts) to great (Hoffman). It also is about real life important events that have been shot as an entertaining story that never lets the pace slow down. I just wish I had seen ot on the big screen rather than on a DVD, it probably would have been even better.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MarcD.Dec 22, 2007
Great film. If you're a political junkie like me, you'll eat it up. Hanks, Roberts, and Hoffman are spot on.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RichardM.Dec 24, 2007
I loved the movie. Fast paced, funny, thought-provoking, great acting, and politically relevant. I was sorry it ended. The movie seemed to fly by.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
TomH.Dec 25, 2007
Very well-acted and entertaining. I am not sure how much of the movie is actual fact, but the overall story is certainly educational. This movie is also stylish and comedic in unexpected places.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
FarrelB.Dec 25, 2007
Fantastic acting and great script have resulted in a captivating story that unfolds to educate the audience about how a period in history came to be. It is funny, darn funny and may even have got the more laughs out of me then anything else Fantastic acting and great script have resulted in a captivating story that unfolds to educate the audience about how a period in history came to be. It is funny, darn funny and may even have got the more laughs out of me then anything else I have seen in a long time. Yet the matter was no laughing matter. But that is exactly why the film works so well. You know how coldness of the ice cream goes so well juxtaposed with the hot apple pie making for an entirely satisfying experience. Some have decried that which was conveniently not depicted. I do not expect films to be Frontline documentaries so if there are inaccuracies or highly pertinent facts left out then I do not think the film needs to denigrated for that. It behooves the audience of any film not to be gullible and not to be lazy; we the watchers have to use the movie as kernel from which to educate ourselves about the remaining details. Have you ever read or watched the Magic School Bus? Where do we go for the post script "reality check"?… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
EricB.Dec 27, 2007
This movie takes complex historical events and simplifies them to the point of idiocy. It's pretense to historical reality is garbage. Its basically well produced piece of junk from people who get their history from comic books. This movie takes complex historical events and simplifies them to the point of idiocy. It's pretense to historical reality is garbage. Its basically well produced piece of junk from people who get their history from comic books. Don't waste your money; nothing going for this film that was neither "rational" nor "inspirational", but rather demonstrates the problems with people who are specialists in acting thinking that they actually understand international politics. Don't waste your money.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MikeR.Dec 29, 2007
Great script and witty performances.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
TimPJan 11, 2008
Eric, you are quite the pretenious one aren't you? The movie of course lacks in many elements of historical inaccuarcy, which i'm sure is why you went and saw the movie in the first place, to reiterate your feelings that hollywood Eric, you are quite the pretenious one aren't you? The movie of course lacks in many elements of historical inaccuarcy, which i'm sure is why you went and saw the movie in the first place, to reiterate your feelings that hollywood can never produce something that has historical credibility; it was fairly accurate, however, in the least it was about charlie wilson's life and ability to get america behind a war but not a cause. I feel the message at the end was too short lived in this aspect, and that the focus of a movie on politics is not necessarily facts but attitude; we know going in that it isn't a documentary so why chastise so harshly for foreknowledge that we all should have had? Well acted, well directed, well described, and lacking somewhat in its final punch, though in some ways the lack of regard seems to hint at the fact that we as both movie goers and Americans often change gears and ideals just that quickly.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JohnRJan 17, 2008
I really liked this movie an it had a lot of hotties (Charlie's staff does show that they are smart and competent). It doesn't come off as too preachy or left-leaning, which is surprising since Aaron Sorkin wrote it. The only thing I really liked this movie an it had a lot of hotties (Charlie's staff does show that they are smart and competent). It doesn't come off as too preachy or left-leaning, which is surprising since Aaron Sorkin wrote it. The only thing that would make it "better" is to include a few more dates throughout the movie. It starts out showing a date in 1980 and a half hour or so later, Bowie's "Let's Dance" is playing in the background, which I guess is a clue to the audience that three years had passed. Then they soon afterwards, they start showing dates in 1987. Minor gripe, but I'm sure most didn't realize that one scene was in 1983 (or 1984).… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
JayH.Apr 16, 2008
What a great cast, with a very fine performance by Philip Seymour Hoffman. Good story, but was surprised at some rather slow moving stretches. Well produced, fine score. A good, but not great movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JohnApr 26, 2008
I had low expectations about this movie, but it really surprised me. I thought it was funny and sexy.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ChadS.Apr 29, 2008
Let the horndog be a horndog on his own watch, and he just might surprise you, just like the congressman from Texas in "Charlie Wilson's War". Our former president was a horndog, on his own watch, no doubt(it's not as if the Let the horndog be a horndog on his own watch, and he just might surprise you, just like the congressman from Texas in "Charlie Wilson's War". Our former president was a horndog, on his own watch, no doubt(it's not as if the former-White House intern was present at any intelligence briefings), but the mother*****' conservatives wouldn't let it go. Then we, conservatives and even liberals alike(influenced by the barrage of media coverage), wouldn't let it go, too. But look at the congressman from Texas in "Charlie Wilson's War", whose peccadillos never interfered with his civic-minded faculties. The blood always knew which way to travel. The filmmaker gets this message across during a comical, but purposeful scene, in which Rep. Wilson(Tom Hanks) shows off his ability to compartmentalize, when he has to deal with a potential personal misconduct scandal, and learn all the nuts and bolts needed to start a covert war, by having separate, intermittent discussions with Bonnie Bach(Amy Adams), his assistant, and Gust Avrakotos(Phillip Seymour Hoffman), a CIA agent, in fire drill fashion. Point taken. This melange of the personal and the political, nicely compliments the opening scene, in which Wilson watches Dan Rather in Afghanistan from a jacuzzi stocked with bare-chested strippers. So does "Charlie Wilson's War" inform "Primary Colors"(also by the same filmmaker)? The short answer: yes. Had we allowed the former-president to get his rocks off without incident, maybe, just maybe, we'd be living in a different world today.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
TonyB.Jun 24, 2008
I wasn't bored, but I could hardly believe much of it. even though we're told the basic facts are true. Tom Hanks is out of his element, and Julia Roberts is seriously miscast. It's no surprise that the great Phillip Seymour I wasn't bored, but I could hardly believe much of it. even though we're told the basic facts are true. Tom Hanks is out of his element, and Julia Roberts is seriously miscast. It's no surprise that the great Phillip Seymour Hoffman steals the show. The film ends too quickly with an almost casual brush off of the significance of the consequences of Charlie's adventure. Mike Nichols did much better with "Primary Colors."… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BillDeMarkDec 21, 2007
I went in expecting to be entertained, and I was. But the humor caught caught me off guard. Big laughs. And a lot of them. Philip Seymour Hoffman is great, as usual; the director's touch is light and sure; and Sorkin's screenplay I went in expecting to be entertained, and I was. But the humor caught caught me off guard. Big laughs. And a lot of them. Philip Seymour Hoffman is great, as usual; the director's touch is light and sure; and Sorkin's screenplay surprisingly lacks a political agenda. This is a light and breezy comedy with the tone and feel of "Catch Me If You Can."… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
SteveH.Dec 24, 2007
This was a well done film but emotionally I couldn't commit to the film. When I heard the line "We want to kill Russians" it was a little weird. The downing of Russian helicopters was anti-climatic and I thought the ending was a throw This was a well done film but emotionally I couldn't commit to the film. When I heard the line "We want to kill Russians" it was a little weird. The downing of Russian helicopters was anti-climatic and I thought the ending was a throw in and weak attempt to even out the movie. This movie proves, Julia Roberts can still pick her parts, Tom Hanks is a good actor and Hoffman is a great actor.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
StaciaM.Dec 26, 2007
I don't understand why this isn't rated higher on Metacritic. It's Mike Nichols, great acting, and a story at just the right length. To top it off, it's one of those true stories that resonates today.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
genuinerealistApr 21, 2022
Just a little grace note. 'Charlie Wilson's War', the book by George Crile, tells the truly incredible story of the actions of a reprobate, completely corrupt congressman who changed the world. Although the movie whitewashes Wilson (whoseJust a little grace note. 'Charlie Wilson's War', the book by George Crile, tells the truly incredible story of the actions of a reprobate, completely corrupt congressman who changed the world. Although the movie whitewashes Wilson (whose personal morality was much worse than shown) and treats the material lightly (it plays as a comedy), the history is pretty much accurate.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
cinemaquoteJun 23, 2019
this film is such a let-down. the story, cast, writer and director would seem a recipe for magic, though the aspect ratio, colouring, editing and the sheer rhythm are off. cliché over matter.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
StevenFJan 17, 2013
Superb performances from Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts and the brilliant Philip Seymour Hoffman have helped create a well-written, cunningly humorous and era-driven tale based on a true story surrounding 1980s congressman Charlie Wilson.
AaronSuperb performances from Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts and the brilliant Philip Seymour Hoffman have helped create a well-written, cunningly humorous and era-driven tale based on a true story surrounding 1980s congressman Charlie Wilson.
Aaron Sorkin's writing capability is completely out the open in this film and its nothing short of genius. Sure, the film is not going to run away with any honours because it does sometimes stray from the point by going from a biopic to a straight up war film. But it is definitely the acting capabilities and Soviet era surroundings which make this film worth 90+ mintues of your time.
The process by which this film plays out, i.e. funding the mujahideen to defeat the soviet onslaught in Afghanistan, is seen as the eventual ramifications which led to the events of 9/11. This shouldn't deter you from watching. The chemistry between Hanks and Hoffman in particular are wonderful scenes to watch, as they bounce off each other like Chuckle Brothers in suits.
Julia Roberts is delectable as Charlies 'friend' Joanne Herring, bringing a touch of elegance and class to to her role, and lest we forget the then up and coming Amy Adams as Wilson's assistant Bonnie Bach.
Hanks is a very convincing Charlie Wilson, he has clearly spent much of his time preparing for the role by learning mannerisms and through Sorkin's writing and Mike Nichols direction, has fluidly combined a business and pleasure persona to make a very likeable character.
The dialogue, as stated before, is very well written and spoken brilliantly by the cast, the chemistry is is natural and doesnt feel forced, and the lines in the film are delivered in a comedic, sometimes elitist fashion, but fun nonetheless.
Excellent talent at show here has resulted in a thoroughly enjoyable movie that will be hard not to like, and in several occasions, hard not to laugh at.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
4
Tss5078Feb 23, 2013
When I sat down to watch Charlie Wilson's War, I thought it would be a can't miss. A true story, covered up by the government, starring Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts!? How could that be bad!? Well, for a change, Tom Hanks isn't playing aWhen I sat down to watch Charlie Wilson's War, I thought it would be a can't miss. A true story, covered up by the government, starring Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts!? How could that be bad!? Well, for a change, Tom Hanks isn't playing a likeable character. Charlie Wilson is portrayed as a sex addicted man whore, who follows his dick more than his brain. As for the film, it was just so confusing to me, they jump from scene to scene so quickly and introduce a ton of characters so fast, that by the time they got to Julia Roberts, I was already sick of the film. I didn't even get through the whole thing to be completely honest with you. It's an unbelievable cast and a pretty cool story, but I was not happy with the way the movie was done. It was not easy to sit through or follow.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
beingryanjudeSep 3, 2014
Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts are meant to be. Charlie Wilson's War is a fun, political addition to Mike Nichols' impressive catalogue of films. Although, not Nichols' finest achievement, this one is worth watching for Phillip Seymour Hoffman alone.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
Trev29Apr 5, 2012
All the acting was right on the target. A quick smart script that tell a fascinating story about how modern government works. Funny in many places, but knows exactly when to add the drama.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
4
SpangleMay 31, 2014
"Charlie Wilson's War" is nothing more than an ok film. First and foremost, Philip Seymour Hoffman kills it and really is the brightest star here. In a small role, Amy Adams is also quite good. I cannot say the same for Tom Hanks or Julia"Charlie Wilson's War" is nothing more than an ok film. First and foremost, Philip Seymour Hoffman kills it and really is the brightest star here. In a small role, Amy Adams is also quite good. I cannot say the same for Tom Hanks or Julia Roberts, however. For some reason, Hanks' performance here was not up to snuff for me and I am not typically a fan of Roberts and this film was no difference. Both seemed to be out of their league compared to a talent such as Hoffman. As for the film, the story was...eh. The parts surrounding the operations in Afghanistan were interesting, but far too much time was spent on establishing Wilson as a drug addicted womanizer, rather than focusing on, you know, the story the film was trying to tell. So much time is devoted in fact that by the end, you are left wondering how this one was an hour and a half long since it feels like so little was truly covered. The depth it goes into on the issues in Afghanistan is cursory at best and it really feels as though we got maybe half of the story at best, which is really too bad. However, there are positives. As mentioned, Hoffman turns in a stellar performance and, in addition, when the film focuses on the main story, it is very interesting. It is even more interesting considering what we know now and how all of the events here wind up hurting us later (as hinted to by Hoffman towards the end). In terms of its attempts at satire, most of the time it hits and you find yourself laughing, which is obviously a plus. Overall, this one feels as though far too much was cut and we are instead left with some interesting pieces that do not add up to what they should.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
Compi24Sep 15, 2014
The D.C. political jargon is kicked into high gear with "Charlie Wilson's War," but - if you can keep up with and look past the red tape - what emerges is a heartfelt, honest, and ultimately comforting political drama with a slam-bangThe D.C. political jargon is kicked into high gear with "Charlie Wilson's War," but - if you can keep up with and look past the red tape - what emerges is a heartfelt, honest, and ultimately comforting political drama with a slam-bang performance from Philip Seymour Hoffman.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
5
amheretojudgeMar 7, 2019
More Like A Mock Trial.

Charlie Wilson's War Nichols is far from being authentic like some Spielberg's documentation but almost close enough to be gritty as Polanski. Either way, the result is a big mixed bag of feelings. You are leftMore Like A Mock Trial.

Charlie Wilson's War

Nichols is far from being authentic like some Spielberg's documentation but almost close enough to be gritty as Polanski. Either way, the result is a big mixed bag of feelings. You are left unsatisfied and a bit peckish for frankly anything, any sort of content to feed upon. The director Mike Nichols, clearly can't absorb the behemoth range of the screenwriter Aaron Sorkin's script on the screen. It is disappointing to see him fumble like such despite of having support from every possible directions. But I would blame Sorkin's take too. His game is actually a one long tennis match.

There is a great serve in the beginning act and a hefty rebound in its second one due to its previous powerful boost. But as it grows iterative, the audience gets tired and the pain is not felt in the head anymore. What was supposed to be a head scratching content is now a flimsy attempt to grasp the viewers. And these fatal attempts of Sorkin trying to get hold of something beyond the range of the storyline, turns it into a quirky foolish socialite world that is always read to negotiate but never shakes on it. The cast is undoubtedly the highlight of the film.

Tom Hanks playing once again a real persona gives a promising performance that is elevated by no one but Amy Adams as her secretary that literally helps him on tiny aspects of the film. Other supporting cast like Julia Roberts, Emily Blunt, Om Puri and John Slattery gets lost into words and never conquers them. The real crispy and juicy ingredient of the dish is Phillip Seymour Hoffman climbing the ladder along with waking people up. He is the unexpected chocolate delight in the cake, he is the cherry of this desert that comes in complementary and what might enrage you then, is that this is Charlie Wilson's War.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
FilipeNetoJul 11, 2021
An interesting film, in which the hypocrisy of politics is skillfully exploited.

This movie is difficult to assess. At first, it seems like a kind of satire on American politics, where an American congressman, in a totally improbable way,An interesting film, in which the hypocrisy of politics is skillfully exploited.

This movie is difficult to assess. At first, it seems like a kind of satire on American politics, where an American congressman, in a totally improbable way, will play a decisive role in the development of one of the most important conflicts of the end of the 20th century: the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

In fact, Texan Charles Wilson is the most unlikely congressman for a situation that was both delicate and risky for the US: at the beginning of the film, we see him having fun with women, alcohol and drugs, and the way he looks be irresponsible, just another politician living off taxpayers. However, he will be able to handle the situation in Afghanistan and be the right man for the task, funding through the CIA the guerrillas who held the Russians back. In real life, he served in Congress between 1973 and 1997, and his actual contribution to the events reported here is, to say the least, debatable. However, the film was able to take advantage of George Crile's biographical book and make a good story out of that material, where Americans do what they have to do, look after their interests, regardless of what happens in the country of others. Yes, the chaos and human drama of the Afghans is just collateral damage and nothing more.

Tom Hanks is a very good master of the film and is excellent at the work ahead. It's not his best movie, and I think the actor is within a certain comfort zone here, without challenging himself too much, but it's a positive performance. Julia Roberts also did well, especially when she starred with Hanks. She hasn't been around much and seems to have had some bad luck along the way, but participating in this film was the actress's right choice. Seymour Hoffman had a sympathetic role in this film, playing the role of a sarcastic veteran spy, who becomes adorable in our eyes for the realistic and harsh way he looks at his surroundings. Even though I got famous with “Capote”, it's in this movie that I feel Hoffman really shows his worth.

Technically, the film is very good and has good production values, but it doesn't stand out, it lets the story and cast stand out. The cinematography is good and makes interesting use of a lot of old footage, and while the film isn't always happy about making us feel that this story takes place in the 80s (the sets and costumes sometimes seem undated), it will. being overtaken by the recurring mention of characters and events from that time. The soundtrack is good and plays its part discreetly.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
DawdlingPoetNov 25, 2021
I find it somewhat ironic when Tom Hanks plays the part of characters which live such devious lives, such as Charlie Wilson, considering from what I know of him, he's quite the opposite and indeed is supposedly a very strict father. I thinkI find it somewhat ironic when Tom Hanks plays the part of characters which live such devious lives, such as Charlie Wilson, considering from what I know of him, he's quite the opposite and indeed is supposedly a very strict father. I think that he was the right actor for this part due to a number of reasons, including his age and his look, or more his expressions in this role, playing the cool as a cucumber congressman who can (or who believes he can) sweet talk most everyone and doesn't believe that any misdemeanours (or worse) he's responsible for will catch up with him.

Its rather depressing viewing, telling the tale of a 'player' who becomes more personally attached to the war he helped back for his own selfish gain, as he's forced to see a bit of the reality behind it while visiting Afghanistan. However, don't be expecting a big epiphany and sudden turnaround from the earlier character, as he does continue to barter and seem like the bigger man but is his heart starting to rule over his head and more importantly greed? eh, I suppose thats up to you to judge.

Don't be expecting much in the way of action scenes in this movie, it mainly consists of political dialogue and is an examination of Charlies ways. I think most women would, after seeing this, be keen on giving him a bit of a slap around the chops! given his behaviour, clearly flirting with many women at the same time and being generally rather selfish - a womanising politician from Texas - shock horror(!) perhaps thats a little unfair, I'm not one who tends to be keen on stereotypes - that much is true (the saying, not the song LOL) but its also true to say that there are some scenes/dialogue which could well make you cringe with his strong Texan accent and his wily 'chat up lines', so don't say I didn't warn you.

I shouldn't make it sound as if the entire movie only features Charlie himself - given his personality, it a) wouldn't make a great deal of sense and b) it would make it rather boring I suppose. Other characters include Joanne Herring, one of the most powerful women in Texas who, of course, Charlie has his eye on for more reasons than one - Joanne is played by another 'a lister' - Julia Roberts. She's certainly no 'dumb blonde' and indeed I think the two of them played off each other so to speak, from what I remember. I think the pairing of the two actors worked quite well, although their not on screen for the entire movie. Another character in the movie is Bonnie Bach, who's played by Amy Adams, who is frustrated as she discovers Charlie's 'ways' - she's a bit more naive and again, her performance is alright. The main non-female secondary role is played by Philip Seymour Hoffman as Gust Avrakotos, who you could describe as a bit of a whistle blower, someone who's cottoned on to the fact that Charlie is no real clean man in many ways and who attempts to bring to light things that Charlie would rather not have come out. There's some pretty good dialogue between these two characters, some of which you can read here:- http://www.imdb.com/character/ch0043843/quotes though obviously be aware that its a bit of a spoiler to read them all if you've not seen the movie but yes, he is a key character too and its interesting to see how the two of them interact (I quickly scanned the link above, there doesn't appear to be any very strong language in the quotes so it should be ok to link to).… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
geewahJun 16, 2021
A solid enough movie but considering the story it's trying to tell lacks some edginess.
The writing is OK, Hanks is Hanks, but the shining light in this movie is Hoffman.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
More From This Movie

67 Critic Reviews

6.7 User Reviews

Details & Credits|Trailers

Current Movie Releases
By MetascoreBy User Score
1 81 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple
2 77 Project Hail Mary
3 75 Send Help
4 73 Hoppers
5 72 The Sheep Detectives
SEE ALL
Essential Links
New on Amazon Prime Video
New on Netflix
Coming Soon to DVD/Blu-ray
SEE ALL