Movie Review: The Interpreter

I would use three words to describe this film: subtle, sophisticated
and satisfying; a surprisingly good drama/thriller that I would
definitely describe as one of the better movies produced this year.
Nicole Kidman’s performance as the multi-lingual, emotionally fraught
interpreter proves why she’s an A-list, Oscar-winning actress. Her
co-star Sean Penn is equally impressive as a Secret Service agent with
emotional baggage.

Initially,
I was put off by the fictional nation and ‘dialect’ (They could’ve done
better – Ku? I don’t think so!) However, the movie’s plot is absorbing
and thought-provoking – Sydney Pollack did not direct a fluffy movie.
The film’s success doesn’t rest so much on the degree of its suspense,
as much as on the skilful way it is directed. It is Pollack’s attention
to minor details which give the movie a polished, sophisticated
feeling. One of the best film shots was the (seemingly) simple aerial
view of New York City at night – certainly Hollywood cinematography at
its finest.

What most impressed me about this movie was its
topicality. Despite the made-up language (along with fictitious
country, president and tribe too!) the film is extremely relevant
within the context of international relations and diplomacy. It is
particularly pertinent when considering the ongoing plight of Africa’s
people, particularly the genocides, or “ethnic cleansing” as they are
so often referred to. It highlights important issues such as
dictatorship, rebel groups, and most importantly, the ‘big C’ –
corruption.

The action is not fast-paced, but not for a minute
is the viewer left bored or preoccupied. I left the cinema with lots to
think about.