Directed by Robert Redford Starring: Robert Redford, Meryl Streep and Tom Cruise Review by Matthew Toffolo
SYNOPSIS:
Two determined students at a West Coast University, Arian (Derek Luke) and Ernest (Michael Pena), follow the inspiration of their idealistic professor, Dr. Malley (Robert Redford), and attempt to do something important with their lives. But when the two make the bold decision to join the battle in Afghanistan, Malley is both moved and distraught. Now, as Arian and Ernest fight for survival in the field, they become the string that binds together two disparate stories on opposite sides of America. In California, an anguished Dr. Malley attempts to reach a privileged but disaffected student, who is the very opposite of Arian and Ernest. Meanwhile, in Washington D.C. the charismatic Presidential hopeful, Senator Jasper Irving (Tom Cruise), is about to give a bombshell story to a probing TV journalist (Meryl Streep) that may affect Arian and Ernest's fates. As arguments, memories and bullets fly, the three stories are woven ever more tightly together, revealing how each of these Americans has a profound impact on each other--and the world.
Robert's Review
Wow! "Lions for Lambs" is really well done. It's like a firm hand grabbing you on the shoulder, shaking you and saying WAKE UP! It's only 88 minutes long and really hits like a ton of bricks, showing the issues we're facing in our politics, in the war on terror and how everything is connected. It does a great job of asking some hard questions and deftly gives some great answers… really explaining our current situation. I would very highly recommend "Lions for Lambs" to everyone who's following our current politics and the war on terror.
All in all, I'd give this movie 4.5 Lions (out of 5). Re-watch value: HIGH
Brett's Review
One of the things I like about Robert Redford is he really knows how to put out a good movie. L4L is one of those good movies. It isn't very long but it sure sends a message, and packs a punch. I really liked the differing views the movie sets up, and the story is really great, however when you add the talent of Meryl Streep, Robert Redford, and Tom Cruise then you got a power house. Overall I thought this was very well done movie with a great story and well flowing plot.
Overall Rating: 4.5 Strategies (out of 5). Re-Watch Value: High (I will purchase on DVD).
Trivia: In an interview to the Variety magazine, Tom Cruise said he had made the film out of deep respect for Robert Redford's body of work, which he said had inspired him since Ordinary People (1980).
Eli's Review
Perhaps one of the most important films of the year. Basically a Berman esque talkie film revolving around three stories from three different sides of the US person.
Redford's type of film where he brings on a strong themmatic as he balances the art of telling the audience something important while also being entertaining. This was definitely an actor's piece as everyone is solid all around.
I particulary enjoyed the story between the Senior University Professor who understands his role of mentor and the student who has smarts and leadership abilities but lacks the drive to step forward and take charge. This held true to my current feelings about how I feel about the world and it motivated me to do something about it.
This is a film that won't stand the test of time really as 20 years from now it will seem a bit dated. But it's a very important film for this time, especially for Americans who are heading into a very important election next year. In fact, I would suggest this film be shown all around the schools from grade 7 and up as it's that important!
From a filmmaking standpoint, it's almost a flawless piece too!
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