After Evelyn Salt, played by Angelina Jolie (Girl, Interrupted), is accused of being a Russian spy she begins to run. Salt uses all her experience and skills as a covert operative to elude her pursuers. Who is Salt, is she on our side or theirs? The hunt is on to find out as Salt tries to prove her innocence. Joining Jolie in Salt is Liev Schreiber (Defiance) as her confidant and boss, Ted Winter.
The movie, Salt, takes place in 2010, however the story is built on the idea that there are some reluctant Soviet Union defectors that have not let go of the past and are preparing to take revenge on the United States of America. If you don’t know your history very well and are not familiar with the Cold War, you may wonder. It is an interesting idea to think that Russia is still out to get the US and allows the movie makers to pull the audience into the story by using political turmoil. It may not be as effective as hoped for. Salt has some great action scenes that are easy to follow since the editing is clean and the camera is not shaking all over the place.
In the beginning of the film, you are convinced that Salt is innocent, but as the movie moves along you begin to wonder who’s side she really on. There are just enough twists and turns to keep you interested in the story. Jolie’s performance is convincing, with just enough tender moments to lett you know she is a woman, while at the same time being a kick-butt, take no prisoners operative. Schreiber as Ted Winters also provides a convincing performance. At times he seems a little one dimensional, but the interactions between Salt and Winter are where you really get to see him shine.
The action and story are not the greatest you have ever seen, but this film is worth seeing if you are looking for something to do. If the idea of Russian spies in our society to seek revenge piques your interest or you’re an Angelina Jolie fan, then it’s worth your time and effort. If not, then wait for it on DVD or Blu-Ray and rent it. You can enjoy this one from the comfort of your own home and save a few bucks.
Overall rating: 3.5 fire extinguishers out of 5
The Motion Picture Association of America rating: PG-13
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