The Valley of Elah ~~~

Quite an impressive film all round. Great acting, excellent direction, stunning cinematography and above par script. Only draw back - the story. If you aren't interested in slow, but exciting journies of discovery (for both the characters and the viewer) then this won't be for you. Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron (with Susan Sarandon on the side) put in pretty amazing performances in this slow paced but intriguing story of how futile and desperate modern army life can be. Half detective fiction, half social comment on how war tears families, and soldiers, apart this is the kind of film everyone should be watching. High quality, high concept but low maintenance. The kind of film you can take on face value or read into it whatever political comment you might like.

Without spoiling this at all, it follows a father trying to come to terms with the loss of a son but not only that, trying to uncover the mystery of what happened and why. Jones plays an ex-military dad on a mission to pull the authorities into the situation but finds himself responsible for uncovering the truth. Theron is pretty strong as the local cop up against her own plethora of misogynistic and dumb ass colleagues whilst becoming embroiled with, and in turn supporting, Jones' character.

This may not be everyone's cup of tea but amongst the recent slew of very mediocre movies recently, this shines stronger than most. Jones must surely win a few awards for this performance? It would only be fair for such an honest and human portrayal.

There is a rather interesting and clever analogy made throughout referencing the American flag - perhaps not so poignant for UK viewers but on reflection both significant and touching. And, most possibly, incredibly true. Please do go and see this. It's subtle yet quite powerful and emotionally resonant.