“Zero Dark Thirty” signifies the time when the Navy SEALs put into effect the plan to take down Osama bin Laden. Or, “USL” as he is referred to in the movie. A plan that was years in the making that involved military and CIA operatives working together, trusting their instincts, and finishing what they started.
Director Kathryn Bigelow (“The Hurt Locker”) paced the span of a decade very well for the movie that reached nearly a three-hour run time. She pieced together enough for the audience to understand the challenges, steps and intelligence it took to get to their “jackpot.”
As with watching “The Hurt Locker,” I found myself holding my breath. Of course, a movie dramatizing the manhunt for bin Laden, there was no surprise as to how it was going to end, but how they got there, that part made me anxious and a little bit emotional.
The movie circles around CIA field agent Maya (Jessica Chastain) who is all business, barely with emotion, but 100% certain of her belief. So much so, she delivers an unforgettable line to the director of the CIA. She chases down her initial lead and puts the pieces together to determine where bin Laden is, but without having concrete proof.
It was incredible because the whole time watching the movie, I couldn’t help but think of it as the true story it is. Yes, facts and tactics and logistics may be altered, but taking just a glimpse into what an operation like that entails, it gave me chills.
Final rating: Loved it
*Screening notes: Unfortunately, sometimes for advanced screenings there are people who get disgruntled despite their entrance to a free movie. One couple left altogether because they sat in press seats when they weren't supposed to and two stubborn women held up the movie from beginning because they too wouldn't move. The press reps involved handled it all so well and with great class. People who are seeing free movies: please be courteous! Follow the few rules there actually are: Don't use your phone during the movie, don't chat with your neighbor, and don't sit in press seats.
Comments