Argo - B+

Rated R, 120 minutes

Entertaining, intense thriller "Argo" finds Affleck in his element

John Goodman, Alan Arkin and Ben Affleck

If you like fact-based dramas, then you'll enjoy the immensely entertaining and the edge-of-your-seat intensity of "Argo," which is an account of an unlikely CIA operation to rescue a handful of Americans during the Iran hostage crisis in 1979. Director and star Ben Affleck continues to impress with his skills behind the camera, though interestingly the chief flaws with the film have to do with his performance in the film. In 1979, during the Iranian Revolution, militants take over the U.S. embassy in Tehran and hold 52 Americans hostage. Six other Americans escape and hide in the Canadian ambassador's home. The Central Intelligence Agency and its specialist Tony Mendez (a shaggy-haired Affleck) put together a plan to help the six Americans escape Iran. "Argo" is an enjoyable, engaging and fascinating thriller; it lacks the complexity of a genuine spy thriller and it also changes much of the details to heavily focus on Mendez's side of what was really a joint U.S.-Canadian effort, but overall it's still a decent directorial effort from Affleck. The strong supporting cast, the tight script from Chris Terrio not to mention the authentic sets and 1970s clothes are all first-rate; Alan Arkin (in a composite role) provides comic relief as a Hollywood producer, but John Goodman (as Oscar-winning makeup artist John Chambers) and Bryan Cranston ("Breaking Bad") also deliver memorable turns as people who helped Mendez in the effort. Interestingly, Affleck both helps and hurts the film. Behind the scenes he is strongest, with serviceable direction and handling of the material, but in front of the camera, he is miscast, giving one of his weakest performances to date, hampering the film. Mendez is a strong character that deserves a stronger actor, and Affleck falters at giving any sense of courage or expertise. Otherwise, "Argo" comes together nicely, particularly in the intense finale, and I wouldn't be surprised to see Oscar noms for writing, Arkin, the clothes and the sets. Stay over for the credits to see the real characters and a nice voice over from former President Jimmy Carter (who thankfully portrays himself in news clips). "Argo," even with its flaws and penchant for taking dramatic license, is a well-done, entertaining effort and one of the first great films of the fall.

Wes's Grade: B+