Argo is also an intimate story and Affleck deals superbly with the conflict between personal sacrifice and patriotism.  The context for the rise of the Islamist revolution in Iran is clearly developed at the outset of the movie. Its genesis is placed squarely at the feet of the British and the Americans for deposing a democratically elected leader and placing the corrupt and unscrupulous puppet Shah Pahlavi in his place. The movie is less patriotic than it is understanding of the forces that brought about the hostage crisis. It goes beyond the immediacy of the crisis itself and poses the serious question about ideologies of any type: at what cost do we forsake those closest to us? Alffeck’s Mendez is the hero of the story precisely because he exercises judgment at a personal level, sincerely taking responsibility for others and not as a political cog.

An ensemble cast, particularly those portraying the escapees gives the film a sharp edge; their doubts and anguish over Mendez’ scheme is fully realized and this gives the narrative much of its pace and ultimate punch. They are transformed from unwilling and fearful participants to engaged actors playing out Mendez’ roles as the Canadian Argo film crew. Affleck both as Director and actor beautifully and sensitively constructed this play within a play and will be ‘front and centre’ with the film come Oscar time.

I highly recommend the political thriller Argo, runner up for the TIFF People’s Choice Award and clearly an Oscar contender.

-Alfredo Romano