MI6 and the CIA approach an ordinary businessman to help them prevent the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Shockingly brilliant! The first act’s light mood raises suspicions about how a horrific historical event, such as that Crisis, can be approached in such a manner. The suspicions fade away in warp speed, though, as Benedict Cumberbatch is thoroughly enjoyable, and no one can moan about his performance. On the other hand, Rachel Brosnahan plays her part equally amazingly and together, they create the illusion that thrill, British phlegmatic humour, and action will entertain you for the rest of the film… Wrong!
The light mood is replaced by a genuine Cold War thriller that, if you weren’t around at the time, will make you feel its threat to humanity and how close our world was to being devastated (again) by a third World War. Both character and story development move the story forward, intensify the suspense, and keep you on the edge of your seats by brilliantly pacing and unfolding actual events that shocked everyone when they saw the light of day.
As Greville Wynne’s story is not well-known, though, and for most people, it remains to be seen what will become of him, Cumberbatch makes sure not to betray that and succeeds in doing so. His performance shocks the system, following the narrative’s turn towards the worst. Merab Ninidze’s presence is also captivating, putting the viewer in Oleg Penkovsky’s shoes and the imminent danger he’s in.
What I also found shocking upon reading about it is that, on IMDb, The Courier has 1 nomination… 1 nomination! That’s it! I have been reading, writing, and researching this industry for so many years, and I still find myself scratching my head regarding who’s getting rewarded and under what criteria. Weinstein is gone (good riddance), but it seems that the gatekeepers and/or festivals still have ambiguous criteria for selecting their nominees and winners. Don’t let that put you off though. The film opened worldwide on Greville’s birthday, and Tom O’Connor’s script shows justice to the relationship between the two men. Ultimately, Dominic Cooke’s The Courier is a masterpiece, and it is definitely worth your time. An absolute must-watch spy thriller!
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Solidarity for all the innocent lives who suffer the atrocities of war!
Stay safe!
