Syriana

6

JohnC.P.Dec 25, 2005

Clearly a very ambitious movie. It's not an action movie, nor is it exactly a thriller movie (it certainly wasn't rewarding in that sense), which means that the movie has to succeed on getting across its message. The movie does Clearly a very ambitious movie. It's not an action movie, nor is it exactly a thriller movie (it certainly wasn't rewarding in that sense), which means that the movie has to succeed on getting across its message. The movie does raise many important and valid issues, but in the end, I was left thinking, "Yeah, great, but I already knew that. Show me new stuff or force me to think about old stuff in ways I haven't before." And the movie failed in that regard. For all the mental hoops the movie makes you jump through, I expected more.… Expand

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6

TokyochuchuSep 18, 2013

Syriana is an interesting political movie that deals with government and oil company corruption. The scenery and atmosphere of the movie is eye catching, as Matt Damon notes when cruising through the Iranian dessert; "It's beautiful outSyriana is an interesting political movie that deals with government and oil company corruption. The scenery and atmosphere of the movie is eye catching, as Matt Damon notes when cruising through the Iranian dessert; "It's beautiful out here." Interesting as it is, the film is also overly convoluted but strangely without much character depth. There are also a few things that don't make sense (why exactly is George Clooney flagging down that car car at the end of the movie!?). Overall, Syriana was a decent night's entertainment but also smells slightly of missed opportunity.… Expand

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6

amheretojudgeSep 1, 2018

changed by the ones who are affected by it..

Syriana Syriana is a character driven political thriller about an oil industry whose fate is not only left up to the ones that runs it but is changed by the ones who are affected by it.changed by the ones who are affected by it..

Syriana Syriana is a character driven political thriller about an oil industry whose fate is not only left up to the ones that runs it but is changed by the ones who are affected by it. Distributed in multiple acts, the script is surprisingly gripping and keeps the audience on the edge of the seat. And even though it doesn't flow naturally as it should, the editing is quite impressive as the narration never loses its way. Ticking for two hours, and following few characters with multiple intervals, it may feel like an overstretched view and a far fetched concept. But it's layered and thought provoking ideology which it depicts through metaphorical incidents with crossover of characters and jaw dropping sequences, the feature sticks its landing safely. Gagham's projection of humane emotions might be accurate but is also poignant since it dwells on the darker side of the coin which may not be edible for everyone. The background score is pretty much flat with sharp sound effects and amazing cinematography and fine editing. The camera work is decently handled with stunning live locations that projects cultures and eye-popping cringing graphics whose credit goes to fine art designing. Clooney is doing some of his career's best work in here with Damon's calm and focused portrayal, Plummer's cunning smart act and Wright's survival spirit, all of it blending in aptly and delivering the anticipated performance from such huge cast. Gagham's adaptation is smart and adaptive and far better than his execution skills since it fails to close any sequence appropriately. Layered screenplay, accurate depiction on cultural insights and Clooney at the heart of it are the high of the feature. The craft Syriana is brimmed with, is how to foliate news into an effective and essential act, it may come with cons, but there are lots of pros.… Expand

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All this user's reviews

5

PeterZ.Jan 2, 2006

Hollywood fops dictating unreality with no sense of character or adventure.

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5

MarcusD.Apr 5, 2007

Weak direction. Tries to be like 'Traffic' and fails. To many things going on at once. Good acting though.

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5

PeterG.Dec 12, 2005

Trite and underwhelming. I have worked in the international oil business. As a society we seem to wish that there was some grand conspiracy, someone to blame besides ourselves as will stop to fill up the SUV. Things just do not work the way Trite and underwhelming. I have worked in the international oil business. As a society we seem to wish that there was some grand conspiracy, someone to blame besides ourselves as will stop to fill up the SUV. Things just do not work the way portrayed in the film. Reality is much more complicated and less intentional. To me, this was just another grandiose, liberal "Hollywood: view of reality: America is evil, big business (oil) is evil, evil America loves evil, corrupt Dictators, but suicide bombers are just desperate, misunderstood basic folks with a really good heart deep down. There are some good points to the film as well, like the frustration that must be felt from perceived American inteference in politics, but basically the movie reflects an agenda. I am getting sick of all the "America is bad" inferences gushing from rich Hollywood liberals. Time to stay home for a while.… Expand

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5

MontyDec 9, 2005

Ambitious, multi-plotted drama tries to squeeze too much into a feature film format. This should have been a min-series. Its jumpiness doesn't allow for much depth or traction. See Kirk Honeycutt's review in the Hollywood Report, Ambitious, multi-plotted drama tries to squeeze too much into a feature film format. This should have been a min-series. Its jumpiness doesn't allow for much depth or traction. See Kirk Honeycutt's review in the Hollywood Report, above, for an accurate descirption of the film. One to watch on dvd perhaps but not a night out..… Expand

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5

JohnL.Sep 23, 2006

I'm giving this movie a 5 because I think its an important movie....That certainly doesn't make it very entertaining....This is a very boring movie but its a good movie, I know that doesn't really make any sense but its one of I'm giving this movie a 5 because I think its an important movie....That certainly doesn't make it very entertaining....This is a very boring movie but its a good movie, I know that doesn't really make any sense but its one of those movies you just have to see for yourself to truly judge what you think.… Expand

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5

JeffTDec 13, 2005

How much one likes this movie depends on your politcal views. As non-liberal I would say it's interesting, yet probably mostly the product of a liberal ranting and making things up as he goes along. Its a movie and just that....not truth.

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5

PaulB.Jan 16, 2006

I get a little frightened by people who think they are learning about how the world really is by going to see a movie. One reviewer here wrote "If you want to learn about the geo-politics of big oil without being talked down to, see this." I get a little frightened by people who think they are learning about how the world really is by going to see a movie. One reviewer here wrote "If you want to learn about the geo-politics of big oil without being talked down to, see this." However, if you're looking to educate yourself -- particularly about something as complex as geopolitics -- YOU DON'T GO TO THE MOVIES PEOPLE!! It's a movie, not real life. And even though it is "based upon" a book which is said to be true, no book gets through the Hollywood meat-grinder intact. Furthermore, I have worked in the oil industry my entire working life (33 years), and have traveled to every country mentioned in the movie and can testify that the oil industry portrayed in the movie is nothing like the oil industry in the real world. In the real world, there is more boring, hard work and less skullduggery. That being said, the movie is still interesting, particularly for its statement that terrorist masterminds don't actually get dirty themselves but, rather, recruit weaker-minded individuals, exploit the deprivation in their lives, then set them on a course to commit suicide for a bogus payoff after death. Too bad -- if the masterminds actually had the fortitude to kill themselves, they'd eventually solve the problem of their existence all by themselves.… Expand

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5

DBJan 3, 2006

Of course, it makes absolutely ZERO sense; it's about as coherent as a pile of grey sand performing an abstract interpretive dance. The acting is good, and the script has a few choice politically charged monologues which the actors Of course, it makes absolutely ZERO sense; it's about as coherent as a pile of grey sand performing an abstract interpretive dance. The acting is good, and the script has a few choice politically charged monologues which the actors (obviously hungry for something remotely interesting to say) rip into like thespian wolves. The thing is, I don't mind at all when a movie (or play, or whatever) doesn't make sense. It actually makes things more interesting for me. I loved what I thought it was trying to say politically. The only problem is, most of the movie is simply a crashing bore. There isn't enough dramatic anything to make you want to keep concentrating, to keep immersing yourself in this convoluted mess. I think a lot of people take it's confusing nature to be a grand artistic statement, but when it's a first time writer and director at the helm, I think it's more likely just shoddy, pretentious filmmaking at it's most hollywood-friendly.… Expand

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5

RobertC.Jan 7, 2006

It's the kind of movie that impresses and affects, with excellent acting and direction. The major defect (and it is major unless you're watching on dvd and can replay scenes with regularity) is that it is impossible to follow the It's the kind of movie that impresses and affects, with excellent acting and direction. The major defect (and it is major unless you're watching on dvd and can replay scenes with regularity) is that it is impossible to follow the plot and character exposition for the first 90 minutes. Some reviewers might see that as a virture, At $8.50 a ticket, it is fairly frustrating.… Expand

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5

ElliottNov 24, 2005

It's excruciatingly convoluted and puzzling, though certainly a very interesting and provocative picture. It's an intriguing film, but after a while I got sick and tired of trying to comprehend what was happening on the screen. I It's excruciatingly convoluted and puzzling, though certainly a very interesting and provocative picture. It's an intriguing film, but after a while I got sick and tired of trying to comprehend what was happening on the screen. I may like it more after another viewing, but right now, I find it MUCH easier to admire the intentions of the picture than the picture itself. READ: great acting, a gripping soundtrack, intelligent direction and overall attractive formal compositions can't make up for a disorienting and ultimately grating screenplay.… Expand

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5

DanielJ.Dec 10, 2005

I still have mixed feelings about this very powerful film. It's really a work seeking to address an imbalance, which means it's pure agenda. The imbalance it seeks to address is the limits of our myopic worldview in the west (or I still have mixed feelings about this very powerful film. It's really a work seeking to address an imbalance, which means it's pure agenda. The imbalance it seeks to address is the limits of our myopic worldview in the west (or anywhere for that matter). What this film does is give a westerner like me just the slightest inkling of the rage and frustration of an all-powerful foreign power interfering in its affairs as well as the humiliation and desperation that the poor feel, specifically here, in the arab world, and how that makes them susceptible to radicalization. It is exceedingly cynical. However it… Expand

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5

miker.Dec 12, 2005

I am not unsympathetic to the position this movie takes that big oil and the politicans it employs are recking havoc with the world politic ultimately with dire consequences to our own country in the future, but the structure of the story, I am not unsympathetic to the position this movie takes that big oil and the politicans it employs are recking havoc with the world politic ultimately with dire consequences to our own country in the future, but the structure of the story, for such a complicated and complex movie, like this sentence, left me in the dark too long. Movies should not be term papers.… Expand

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5

statikdogDec 21, 2005

Utterly confusing and often bland. Just because you make a move about important issues it doesn't mean it's a great movie. Maybe I should've brought Dennis Miller along with me to explain what the Hell was going on.

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5

MikeE.Dec 31, 2005

Don't get out of your seat to get popcorn, or let your mind wander in the middle of the film. If you do, you're going to bo lost trying to tie all the loose ends together.

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5

JohnY.Jan 21, 2007

Extremely complicated plot. Too many storylines. Sloppy editing. Worst film I have seen in ages.

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5

MarkB.Dec 15, 2005

Writer-director Stephen Gaghan previously did the screenplay for Traffic, partly as an outgrowth of his substance-abusing days before becoming clean and sober, and the most impressive aspect of his work on Syriana is that two years of Writer-director Stephen Gaghan previously did the screenplay for Traffic, partly as an outgrowth of his substance-abusing days before becoming clean and sober, and the most impressive aspect of his work on Syriana is that two years of researching Big Oil before writing this DIDN'T drive him back to drugs again! Gaghan attempts to do with the energy cartels what Traffic did with the worldwide drug trade, but it's missing one simple but crucial element: Steven Soderbergh as director. Soderbergh gained justifiable acclaim (and a Best Director Oscar) for making Gaghan's sprawling blend of three seperate storylines amazingly clear and viewer-friendly; Gaghan, helming this one, adds about 7 more plotlines and no end of confusion. The very distinct possibility that Gaghan is weaving this endlessly tangled web ON PURPOSE to demonstrate how complex Big Oli's grip on government (domestic and foreign), the economy, morality, life and death doesn't make his film any less annoying to watch; Gaghan's like a kid who lets you play with his gigantic jigsaw puzzle while watching you squirm because he deliberately hid several key pieces under the sofa cushions. Amazingly, he manages the impressive feat of being both serpentine and heavy-handed; his simple conclusion (if you didn't already guess it before buying your ticket) is that The Oil Industry Is Evil And All-Encompassing And There's Nothing You Can Do About It, Not Even Ride Your Bike To Work. (And if you manage to miss it, Tim Blake Nelson hammers it home with a speech about corruption that is extremely reminiscent of Michael Douglas' "Greed Is Good" monologue in Wall Street without at all making you forget how much more effective Oliver Stone's movie was.) I have nothing at all against blowing the whistle on Big Business, but unlike Robert Greenwald's current documentary Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Prices, Syriana doesn't spur audiences to action, or behavioral change, or anything except hopelessness and doldrums. And at least Andrew Niccol's underrated Lord of War, which takes on international arms trade and draws most of the same cynical conclusions, very successfully uses Nicolas Cage's narration to draw you into its necessarily labyrinthine plot rather than pushing you away. Syriana DOES boast some very good performances, especially from Christopher Plummer, Matt Damon, Amanda Peet and especially George Clooney (and three cheers to him for, by putting on weight for both this and Good Night and Good Luck, demonstrating that movie good guys come in ALL shapes and sizes). And one of Gaghan's subplots is an intriguing and extremely offbeat (to Western viewers,anyway) view of Arab suicide bombers as otherwise rather likable, ordinary people whose deaths in the line of dubious duty inspire sympathy not as much for their victims as for the attackers themselves--what a shame that such nice kids have to die so early! Otherwise, the closest that Gaghan gets to coherently communicating his obviously deeply felt message about the sins committed by American oil companies is that sitting through this tangle is a perfect mirror of the frustration that many moviegoers felt earlier this year at the gas pumps!… Expand

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5

SpangleDec 25, 2014

Syriana is ultimately a mixed bag. On the positive, it is extremely well shot. I really loved the look and feel of this film and that is ultimately the thing that stood out most to me. The script from Stephen Gaghan is also very strong andSyriana is ultimately a mixed bag. On the positive, it is extremely well shot. I really loved the look and feel of this film and that is ultimately the thing that stood out most to me. The script from Stephen Gaghan is also very strong and well written, though complicated. However, it has its moments of brilliance and has very tight dialogue throughout. The casting is also very good as everybody really fit the roles they were cast in well. Finally, it certainly had a great ending packed with thrills that made build up worth it and allowed some insight into what had just transpired over the last two hours. Sadly, there are some major negatives. Firstly, the multiple storylines are interesting and enjoyable, but it stifles the acting of the great cast. Phenomenally cast, nobody is able to standout as they are barely there, so nobody has time to establish their performance. In addition, it can really slow down at times and get boring. Like, really boring. There are moments that really hook you in, but others that nearly put you to sleep, which is a problem. Most importantly, I felt like it was trying too hard to make its audience confused. I like the idea that it was purposeful, but there was very little to latch onto. Ultimately, Syriana is a very well made film with moments of brilliance that falters for the same reasons that make it good.… Expand

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4

ChuckU.Jan 6, 2006

Undeveloped characters, choppy, shallow. this movie blew the chance on what should have been an awesome topic.

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4

PeterRDec 14, 2005

I agree with it's politics. But the movie is not as smart as an episode of west wing, while emplying the same technique of dazzling us with too much information... The problem here is that it isn't as complex as it seems, it's I agree with it's politics. But the movie is not as smart as an episode of west wing, while emplying the same technique of dazzling us with too much information... The problem here is that it isn't as complex as it seems, it's actually corny. Actors, script, photographer are better than the direction, makes you realize how good soderberg is when thinking about traffic, which is a very similar movie with a much better director.… Expand

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4

ARDec 11, 2005

This is a bore!!! It's boring. Did I mention how boring this movie is. It's agonizingly dull. The director, writer and editor seem to think that to show boredom, one has to film boredom. The movie is around 120 minutes long (I This is a bore!!! It's boring. Did I mention how boring this movie is. It's agonizingly dull. The director, writer and editor seem to think that to show boredom, one has to film boredom. The movie is around 120 minutes long (I know: I checked my watch about ten times). It spends that 120 minutes in a perpetual "setup" that could have and should have taken 20 minutes. Several people left. I asked my wife if we could leave several times. George Clooney gained 35 lbs. For what? He wasn't in the movie all that much. Neither was Matt Damon (Maaatttt Daaaamon). And HIS story line was the best!!! It seems that every piece of footage this director filmed thought it was so "Artistic" and "Profound" that it couldn't be left out of the story; it redefines "self-indulgence". There is five minute after five minute after five minute of "these" characters settting the stage for "that" character. And the dialog is so dull, so slow. The concept was interesting. The execution was terrible. What a snooze. And "professional" critics actually like and recommend this? In the movie, they talk about how the Chinese Gov't tortures members of Falun Gong. Well, "Syriana" is how Hollywood tortues movie goers.… Expand

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4

beingryanjudeSep 1, 2014

Syriana is not your everyday thriller in the Middle East. It's often intellectual and thought-provoking. Nevertheless, I found little interest beyond George Clooney--who barely held lead status.

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3

DuncanS.Jan 9, 2006

By not providing a coherent storyline the film is free to indulge in vague and not so vague political insinuations and to emotionally manipulate. With it's impenatrable plot, the viewer is unable to evaluate the premises or the By not providing a coherent storyline the film is free to indulge in vague and not so vague political insinuations and to emotionally manipulate. With it's impenatrable plot, the viewer is unable to evaluate the premises or the particulars of the film's unsubtle point of view. In other words, the true believer can smugly turn off his or her brain during the proceedings. All in all, a cowardly propaganda fantasy and a waste of talented actors and craftspeople.… Expand

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3

ThomasDec 10, 2005

Movie jumps all over the place, making it difficult to follow and understand. Should have been a documentary instead of a feature film. Pretty boring movie, don't waste your money.

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3

DianaT.Feb 19, 2006

a plot that is impossible to follow, detect, comprehend, apprehend.

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3

JuliaW.Mar 9, 2007

The incomprehensibility of the editing ruins what could be a fine film.

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3

SarahR.May 12, 2007

This movie is trying too hard to be impressive, and it succeeds only in being confusing. I waited 2+ hours for the ah-ha moment. Clooney on his pseudo-intellectual soap box. Ick.

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3

OrsonO.Dec 29, 2005

Yes, this is an ambitious, four plot-line film; yes, it's about Big Oil (while we have predisdent closely connected to oil, as must be from Texas - traditionally, out biggest oil producer - who none the less was only 'small' Yes, this is an ambitious, four plot-line film; yes, it's about Big Oil (while we have predisdent closely connected to oil, as must be from Texas - traditionally, out biggest oil producer - who none the less was only 'small' oil, critics always miss). But none of this saves it from confusing marrative arc, mysterious motivation (right down to the Paki-Jihadi - haven't the writers heard of Koran memorization in Madrassa's?), tendentious slant, and a miscast Matt Damon. It's still a boring film (made me wish I was reading instead)! In fact, even big oil is only moderately profitable industry (7% - newspapers make more than double that). And big business has been in declining share of the US economy since Reagan. (I'm so scared.) There's more suspense in reading blogs than sitting for the sad, pretentious, "Syriana." Only Michale Moore-on's imbued with self-righeousness against Bush/Chamey/Chimp/Hitler/Hallitburton/"It's all about oil!" (pick any malicious stereotype - one's as good [and bad] as any other) and Green voting Ralph Nader lovers (ie, most of my neighbors and friends in BOulder, CO). Even I'll get more out of reading The Nation than watching this pablum trumped up as 'mystery.' Naturally, this screenplay was hived off the only section of a book that could be spun against the Right! Baer's book, by a former CIA operative, was really about how much we - as a nation - have lost by having abandoned human intelligence for safe and dull hi-tech surveillance. You won't find any of that message on film - how convenient. This has been a horrible movie season - even summer was better! And an aweful year - I've walked out on three films, a record for me - and this and 'Munich' were two, both December releases. Now, tell me: it's four years since 9/11, and the only one to approach terrorism seriously, even tangentially, was the viscerally satisfying 'B' picture "Red Eye." HOW COME ALLL THE BEST FILMS ABOUT TERRORISM WERE MADE IN THE CLINTON YEARS? Because Hollywood has abandoned AmeriKa for...for what exactly? Get a clue!!! We want believable villains and conflicts relevant to today! Just reading up on Big Oil, I notivce that Canada has now supplanted Iraq for #2 rank in proven world oil reserves. Now, if syriana had been set in Alberta, and we could all lauch at the Canucks about Aermican intrigue, maybe then it would have been entertaining enough to sit through. But Hollywood can't get over recycling old myths (the conspriacy behind "Three Days of The Condor") as cliches, instead of facing up to new realities (eg, Jihadi's do just want us dead because we are free to be wealthy and libertines and live to smite Allah - Bin Laden says so).… Expand

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3

cousinrkDec 15, 2005

One of the most disapointing films of the year. I loved Traffic and was expecting more of the same here. What I found was a convoluted movie that felt more like watching a boring CNN documentary on Oil and Gas than an interesting film. The One of the most disapointing films of the year. I loved Traffic and was expecting more of the same here. What I found was a convoluted movie that felt more like watching a boring CNN documentary on Oil and Gas than an interesting film. The fact is it wasn't entertaining at all. You spend so much time trying to figure everything out that it becomes hard to enjoy yourself.… Expand

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3

adamSv94Feb 28, 2013

It was really hard to enjoy this movie since the plot didn't make any sense and the characters were way too many to keep track of. The only bright spot in this movie is George Clooney's acting, eventhough I whish that the Oscar for BestIt was really hard to enjoy this movie since the plot didn't make any sense and the characters were way too many to keep track of. The only bright spot in this movie is George Clooney's acting, eventhough I whish that the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor should have gone to Jake Gyllenhaal.… Expand

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3

PZJNov 29, 2014

Not a great movie. People say it's intellectual but it's just not that deep of a movie. Yes, it has some deeper themes than your typical hollywood movie but that's not a high bar. The movie follows too many characters with disparate stories,Not a great movie. People say it's intellectual but it's just not that deep of a movie. Yes, it has some deeper themes than your typical hollywood movie but that's not a high bar. The movie follows too many characters with disparate stories, which is what requires the attention and ability to connect plot lines, but you never get to know any of them well enough to care about what happens to anybody.… Expand

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3

mc042Mar 20, 2018

I expect to know what the movie is about after watching it for more than two hours.

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3

FilipeNetoNov 28, 2020

Honestly, I was waiting for something more about this film. Having been directed and written by Stephen Gaghan, an Oscar winner for his work as a screenwriter, and with names as great as George Clooney and Matt Damon, I thought it would be aHonestly, I was waiting for something more about this film. Having been directed and written by Stephen Gaghan, an Oscar winner for his work as a screenwriter, and with names as great as George Clooney and Matt Damon, I thought it would be a much better and more interesting film than it turned out to be.

The problem with this film, for me, was the overly ambitious script. The film crosses a series of stories that have in common the connection with oil, and the political, economic and interest games that are behind it: it all starts with a power conflict between two brothers, sons of a sheik. One is incapable, but is willing to allow the country's oil to be controlled by foreign companies, while the other wants to control the oil and use it for the benefit of the kingdom. When an American company is passed over by a Chinese consortium that has submitted a better offer, the United States decides to step in and send a CIA agent to the field. There is also a subplot involving a group of immigrant workers and other details to take into account. Gaghan wanted to take a step higher than his own legs and was unable to rise to the challenge he imposed on himself. The way he did the script was not happy and resulted in a disconnected, dispersed and confused story. At one point, I no longer knew the link between the characters and what was at stake, and I had to make an effort not to lose the thread. The film also makes a series of criticisms of the way oil is poorly managed as a resource and the number of conflicts on its behalf, but this turned out to be the most interesting and understandable part of the film.

The cast has strong names, but they are affected by the poor construction of their characters and the bland and uninteresting story. The connection between the characters and the audience is scarce: I just managed to have some sympathy for the reformist prince, it was the character that touched me the most and was very well played by Alexander Siddig, one of the less notable names in the film. George Clooney is another great actor and the film earned him the only Oscar he won as such (Best Supporting Actor), but it was hard for me to understand what he was doing here and, to be honest, I found it a bleak and uninteresting performance, especially if we think of other incredible films he entered ("Ocean's Eleven", "Monuments Men" etc.). The same can be said of Matt Damon, who has the strangest character in the film: a businessman who, after losing a son in an accident at the Arab prince's house, is hired by him as a form of compensation and ends up becoming his friend. There are many moral issues surrounding this subplot, and we could almost accuse this character of rising in life at the expense of the death of her own son. Indifferent to everything, Damon leaves us a bland and dormant performance. Christopher Plummer, William Hurt, Chris Cooper and Jeffrey Wright also appear in the film and do a decent job, but it is not the right film to shine and there is not much they can do to save it.

The film does not seem technically brilliant. Cinematography is good, but neither surprising nor enchanting. The sets and costumes are good and realistic, the use of real sets and filming on location was a welcome bonus, which brings an additional dose of realism and credibility. The effects used are good enough, but just that. The pace is good, and it is not because it is more than two hours length that it becomes boring. There are some intense scenes, and that includes the death of a child in an accident and a very realistic and very well done torture scene. For me, these scenes were also a bonus, as well as the use of the Arabic language, rarely used in cinema.… Expand

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2

stephenh.Jan 7, 2006

Complete waste of time. Totally incrutable plot. Kept hoping it would come together at the end, after working very hard to follow, but it never did. Complete mystery and I am no dummy.

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2

BobJan 16, 2006

This movie is a mess. It seems like they are going to tie all this together at the end but the movie just stops leaving any number of plot parts hanging. I think the agenda of the filmmakers got in the way of what could have been a good film.

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2

RobertDec 10, 2005

A real snoozer,i know this is not what the reviewers are saying,but this film had alot to say,and not a good job telling the story--Disjointed! I was expecting more.

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2

[Anonymous]Mar 4, 2006

I was prepared for this film to be hard to follow. What I found unforgivable is that it was boring.

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2

FredB.Jul 29, 2006

Read the reviews: even the high ratings use the words "convoluted," "confusing," "complex." Many viewers admit they had to view the movie 2-3 times to understand it. Who needs that! The plot jumps randomly from place to place (a dozen or Read the reviews: even the high ratings use the words "convoluted," "confusing," "complex." Many viewers admit they had to view the movie 2-3 times to understand it. Who needs that! The plot jumps randomly from place to place (a dozen or more of them) with different characters, leaving you totally confused as to what we are leading up to. And when we "get there," we're nowhere -- a series of head-scratching "who are those guys" and "what does that have to do with anything"! And, in my opinion, this is not the type of role that George Clooney should undertake: his performance (as well as the movie as a whole) was boring. Don't waste your rental dollars on this one, unless you love movies with very complex plots.… Expand

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2

CocoBunnyJun 24, 2009

Clooney's performance is the only thing I really enjoyed about this movie. Aside from that, it was a confusing, self-important mishmash of plot lines that was simply too much information for one movie. I felt like they were trying Clooney's performance is the only thing I really enjoyed about this movie. Aside from that, it was a confusing, self-important mishmash of plot lines that was simply too much information for one movie. I felt like they were trying harder to beat me over the head with a political message than they were to deliver a good story. This film simply doesn't deserve all the praise that it's been given. While there's an interesting story somewhere down in there, it's covered up with so much other stuff that you hardly notice it here. This could have easily been stretched out into a series, or at least laid out in a way that was easier to follow.… Expand

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2

ChapS.Dec 22, 2005

Please do not waste your time watching this movie. I still do not understand what this movie was about. It is a jumbled up mess that makes no attempt to "come together" at the end or even make some larger point. The only thing I could glean Please do not waste your time watching this movie. I still do not understand what this movie was about. It is a jumbled up mess that makes no attempt to "come together" at the end or even make some larger point. The only thing I could glean from this movie is that big corporations are evil (please tell me something I don't already know). I'm sorry I didn't just walk out of this movie half-way through. The only reason that I can figure out why this move got such a good metacritic score is that reviewers are too embarrassed to admit that they have no idea what this movie is about either.… Expand

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2

TimJan 16, 2006

Very disappointing movie. After watching the trailer I was excited to hopefully see a good political thriller. Well, this movie was all political but there was no thrill. It felt like I was sitting in my seat for 3 hours before anything Very disappointing movie. After watching the trailer I was excited to hopefully see a good political thriller. Well, this movie was all political but there was no thrill. It felt like I was sitting in my seat for 3 hours before anything really meaningful happened. All the old white men looked the same and you could never get a grasp on what their names were. So if they weren't in the scene but were being talked about, you have no idea what was going on. Great cast and acting but terrible script and so much waste of screen time. No point to the opening family scene which lasted way too long. No point to seeing a Bob leave a tip. So many times this happened. I only need to see something happening on screen that affects the story. So much wasted time. I would definitely not suggest seeing this film. It was a great concept but terribly poor execution.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

PhilipG.Feb 28, 2006

Clooney is good but movie makes no sense and no point. Anybody could make a confusing movie.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

MarilynZ.Mar 2, 2006

If we were by ourselves, I would have walked out. What a convoluted mess. I finally gave up and tried to enjoy George.

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1

MalikK.Mar 2, 2006

too many sub characters. i fell asleep several times. the ending was like being hanged and not knowing why

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1

JonC.Nov 3, 2007

One of two movies I have ever fallen asleep in.

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1

DennisDec 7, 2005

A reel bore bomb.

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1

MichaelW.Dec 9, 2005

Although "Syriana" deals with important issues, its utter incomprehensibility makes it a failure. I was warned by several reviews that it is difficult to follow, but the confused and impenetrable script negate any interest and value this movie has.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

BillW.Mar 25, 2006

"Thriller" is a misnomer--there are about 3 minutes of thrill in this painfully long-seeming 126 minute muddled mess. I believe its main problem is that the screenwriter and director have no clue about how to use film as a storytelling "Thriller" is a misnomer--there are about 3 minutes of thrill in this painfully long-seeming 126 minute muddled mess. I believe its main problem is that the screenwriter and director have no clue about how to use film as a storytelling medium--it is "talking heads" from beginning to end. No showing instead of telling here. Also, many scenes have little to do with the story and could have been replaced with material that helps clarifiy the overly difficult to follow plot. One reviewer simply said the filrm was self-important--this subtle aura also plagued me all through the movie, that feeling of "artiste" consumed so much with his own talent and insight that he forgets the basic principles of cinematic entertainment. As another user said, this should have been a documentary. I wish the critics would rate films on their entertainment value and not on the (perceived) social value. When we, as customers, dish out hard-earned cash for a film that's dubbed "political thriller," we want to be entertained first, everything else second. If they fail tot entertain, they have ripped us off.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

DougB.Feb 17, 2008

No entertainment value. Slow and confusing. I feel I was ripped off. I am going to hesitate to see any more movies with George Clooney.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

1

KellyG.Dec 9, 2005

Too self important.

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1

V.MartinezDec 9, 2005

This movie should have 'Plot/Character Guides' given out at the entrance of the movie (kinda like 3D glasses). I would have walked out, but I paid $8.50 (remember, if you check your watch in a movie or you fall asleep, then it This movie should have 'Plot/Character Guides' given out at the entrance of the movie (kinda like 3D glasses). I would have walked out, but I paid $8.50 (remember, if you check your watch in a movie or you fall asleep, then it sucks). I'd say about 12 characters with 5 different stories going on at the same time (i.e. 60 scenarios). A circus act with the clowns juggling plots, characters, jerky video, anti-Big Oil cliches, CIA coverups, family crises, etc. In short, wait until it's out on DVD( and take 'Syriana 101' at your community college). P.S. The '1' star is to bring down the accolades, sorry.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

1

JohnB.Dec 11, 2005

The fact that this film got so many good reviews is really amazing! It's a totally absurd attempt to explain the big oil conspiracy, the source of terrorism and the inner workings of the CIA. It fails on all counts, basically because The fact that this film got so many good reviews is really amazing! It's a totally absurd attempt to explain the big oil conspiracy, the source of terrorism and the inner workings of the CIA. It fails on all counts, basically because the story is so flawed. It's confusing, totally unplausible and, worst of all-boring. You wonder why movie attendance is down? After spending eight bucks and two hours on this farce, i think I know why.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

CindyA.Dec 14, 2005

I just saw this movie tonight and what a waste of money. It was the worst movie I have EVER seen!!

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

ArnoldH.Dec 3, 2005

The most incoherent two hours in movie history. Stereotypes, not flesh and blood characters. Unconcving plot developments. A true must-miss.

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JeffA.Jan 10, 2006

The most overrated movie of all time! What a waste of a wonderful cast. I got all my friends in free since my buddy manages local regal and they were still sick about it. I feel bad for bringin them out to this disaster. Please read the user The most overrated movie of all time! What a waste of a wonderful cast. I got all my friends in free since my buddy manages local regal and they were still sick about it. I feel bad for bringin them out to this disaster. Please read the user reviews and not the critics on this site. They are all crooks tryin to get your hard earned cash. I love this site, but I have wasted alot of time and money since I have been on here. For example Sideways 94, Before Sunset 90, Brokeback Mountan 87, Constant Gardener 82, Broken Flowers 79, and of course Syriana 76. Please take the time to research a movie before you waste your lover's time. Or even worse is your friend's time, they seem to be alot more critical and less forgiving. I wish you all better luck than me. LOL… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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BCApr 1, 2006

There sure are parts of this movie I love. I love being able to make fun of it. I love that I now can refer ro something as the WORST MOVIE EVER MADE. This is, without a doubt, the most boing and lenthy movie ever. My friend fell asleep There sure are parts of this movie I love. I love being able to make fun of it. I love that I now can refer ro something as the WORST MOVIE EVER MADE. This is, without a doubt, the most boing and lenthy movie ever. My friend fell asleep watching it. George Clooney was, like usual, a good actor, and his acting was the only good thing in the movie. There is so much plot it is utterly impossible to follow. There are at least four storylines going on at once and they are barely connected to one another. I strongly urge anyone who is thinking of watching this to just walk away.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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WillieG.Jul 6, 2006

This was a bloated head scratcher of a film. I need to just boycott future films from this director. I loathed Traffic, and this flick was just more of the same convoluted mess. I truly recognize this director's style now...1) introduce This was a bloated head scratcher of a film. I need to just boycott future films from this director. I loathed Traffic, and this flick was just more of the same convoluted mess. I truly recognize this director's style now...1) introduce lots of characters with little to no development, weave an endlessly sprawling and confusing plot, and then leave the viewer to consider tons of loose ends and contrived motivations without any adequate development whatsoever.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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SeanP.Dec 10, 2005

This is by far the worst movie i have ever seen. I would have walked out and tried to get my money back, but i assumed the movie just had a slow start. So i stayed for the whole movie and greatly regretted it. There is absolutely no storyThis is by far the worst movie i have ever seen. I would have walked out and tried to get my money back, but i assumed the movie just had a slow start. So i stayed for the whole movie and greatly regretted it. There is absolutely no story involved. I would have rather watched the nightly news for two hours straight and gotten more out of it. Save yourself the time and money and stay home. This movie truly earns the zero rating i gave it.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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SusanM.Dec 12, 2005

I have so many bad things to say about this movie...first of all, the person who said "If you liked Traffic you'll like Syriana" was 100% wrong. I liked Traffic a lot, and this movie was just plain lousy. This movie is so thick with oil I have so many bad things to say about this movie...first of all, the person who said "If you liked Traffic you'll like Syriana" was 100% wrong. I liked Traffic a lot, and this movie was just plain lousy. This movie is so thick with oil industry lingo that it lost me right away...in the trailer, it looked like it would be action-packed, well let me tell you it's not! It's 99% talking and 1% action. It tried to make some kind of statement about the corruption in the oil industry, while telling something about the lives of those involved. Well, it TOTALLY failed because I didn't walk away pissed off at oil companies, I walked away pissed off at everyone involed in making the movie, for wasting 2 hours of my time. This is not an enjoyable movie, the story goes nowhere and the characters don't matter and it never makes it's point. Trust me, spend your time watching paint dry, you'll have more fun.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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AnnDec 13, 2005

This is a film only a mother of the director could love. It is very difficult to follow as it jumps from storyline to storyline all with predictable results. Business as usual with America the bad guy as we are responsible for creating This is a film only a mother of the director could love. It is very difficult to follow as it jumps from storyline to storyline all with predictable results. Business as usual with America the bad guy as we are responsible for creating terrorists, oil at all costs to drive our engine, and corruption in all facets of government and coroporations. Ho-hum. Not much character development if at all. The audience walked out shaking its collective heads. Not worthy of your time or money.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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CarmineA.Jun 24, 2007

Terrible almost far-left propoganda. Clooney preaches this stuff and then hops in his luxury car feeled with the "corrupt" oil. The directors and Clooney are nothing more then spoiled hollywood actors that want a cause to belong to. This is Terrible almost far-left propoganda. Clooney preaches this stuff and then hops in his luxury car feeled with the "corrupt" oil. The directors and Clooney are nothing more then spoiled hollywood actors that want a cause to belong to. This is the moral of the story: America: awful/immoral/evil country that cares about businees more then human lives. Saudi sheiks : good hearted, caring people who are being used by America. Suicide bombers: misunderstood kids who are really good people its just that America screws them over. Conclusion: Death to America, Long-live Muslim totalitarianism, suice bombers are good-hearted people.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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BaconS.Nov 4, 2009

Worst movie ever. It took jumping the shark into outer space. No country, especially the US, is going to fire a missile against a foreign country to save oil profits for a company. Absurd. But perfectly fine for conspiracy theorist. Most of Worst movie ever. It took jumping the shark into outer space. No country, especially the US, is going to fire a missile against a foreign country to save oil profits for a company. Absurd. But perfectly fine for conspiracy theorist. Most of the places it was saying something took place is either wrong or confusing and has nothing to do with anything except drag the story.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

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FantasyDec 13, 2005

What a disappointment. Just awful. Avoid at all costs.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

0

PeteP.Dec 29, 2005

Worst movie I've seen this year.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

Syriana

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