Charlie Wilson's War

Comedy and politics go at it, and the movie loses the battle

By Matt Pais

Critic's Rating:

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Tom Hanks in "Charlie Wilson's War" (Credit: Universal)

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Amazingly casual congressman Charlie Wilson (a likable Tom Hanks) uses his social skills to sweet-talk far-right conservatives, Pakistanis, Israelis, Afghans and more in an attempt to take down the Soviet Empire. Based on George Crile's account of this true story, the movie also stars Philip Seymour Hoffman as a CIA operative, a horribly miscast Julia Roberts as a Southern fundraiser and Amy Adams as Wilson's assistant.

Big question: Can "Charlie Wilson's War," written by Aaron Sorkin ("The West Wing") and directed by Mike Nichols ("Primary Colors"), reverse the trend of political films with nothing new to say?

Skip it: A potentially provocative story of political back-scratching that wants to be as lightweight as "Catch Me If You Can," "Charlie Wilson" overdoes it with the comedy and then nose-dives into sudden, tearful drama. Several of the scenes work on their own, but together it's like grafting the conflict-free pizzazz of "Ocean's Thirteen" onto "Lions for Lambs"--without ever incorporating the long-term effects of arming Afghanistan.

Catch it: If you're struggling with a relationship and think you're the only one. Even a Soviet pilot is complaining about his significant other just before he goes down!

Bottom line: The movie's a snappy piece of work that suits Charlie, whose charm is the one thing that rival parties can agree on. He's sincere, but "Charlie Wilson's War" underplays the atrocities in other countries in favor of ladies-man hobnobbing until it becomes a directionless huckster--likely to leave you with a smile, some food for thought and the inevitable sensation that you've been had.

Bonus: Need some free acting advice? According to Charlie, gracing the cover of Playboy is nearly as good as having a resume full of experience. What a gentleman.

mpais@tribune.com