‘A Most Wanted Man’ stars Phillip Seymour Hoffman, who died earlier this year. (Photo courtesy of Lionsgate)
Like most people of my generation, I grew up thinking that all spies operated like 007. Of course, as I matured, and “James Bond” films seemed to become more and more immature, I realized how fictionalized these films were.
Of course, Bond films turned a corner and became much more realistic again, or perhaps more realistic than they had ever been, when Daniel Craig took over the lead role. I have enjoyed all three of Craig’s films and I hope there will be more.
In the meantime, there are other films that depict government spies: “A Most Wanted Man” is an excellent example of this. “Wanted Man” is a very serious and complex spy thriller. I am not sure if there is even one laugh or bit of humor in the entire film. As often as not, one is unclear where all this is leading, but the complexity of the story is part of the charm of the film.
This is a tale of very somber people, attempting to prevent massive destruction and death, while the rest of us are busy living simpler lives. I have no reference to judge whether any of the procedures or practices depicted in the film are anything close to the reality of espionage. But if it is close, I admire those who make tough decisions in order to achieve the goal that two characters state at different times in the film, “To make the world a safer place.”
“Wanted Man” has many strengths, including a great screenplay, wonderful cinematography and strong performances. Perhaps, however, it might be remembered in future days most prominently because it was the last film of Philip Seymour Hoffman.
Hoffman died tragically earlier this year. He left a great legacy of work. When I think of his passing, I think of the loss of future films he would have made. And I look back: “Almost Famous,” “The Ides of March,” “Doubt,” “Charlie Wilson’s War,” “Capote” (his Oscar-winning performance) and the list could go on and on. In each of these films, Hoffman had great lines of dialogue and he delivered them with incredible style.
In a supporting role in “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” Hoffman played Freddie Miles, the only person who realized what Mr. Ripley was all about. In a much different film, “A Most Wanted Man,” Hoffman plays Günther Bachmann, once again the smartest person in the room. Neither Bachmann or Freddie Miles is very likeable, but one has to admire their ability to sort out the truth.
Ultimately that is what “A Most Wanted Man” is truly about, uncovering the truth. There are quite a few twists in the film and it requires a concentrated viewing. It is not a film one should watch casually, at least not if one desires to understand the climax. But it is a film that satisfies. The climax works splendidly, and the final moments are nearly perfect.
“A Most Wanted Man” is based on the novel by spy thriller author, John le Carré. I have seen several of the adaptations of his work through the years, though I have never read a book by him.
Film adaptations of his work that I have seen include “The Constant Gardener,” “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” and “The Tailor of Panama.” “A Most Wanted Man” is the best of this lot.
It is an exciting, intricate spy thriller and a great swan song for a very gifted actor.
Box Office results
Domestic gross: $17,231,449 (as of Nov. 2)
Foreign gross: $14,317,000
Production budget: NA
Opening weekend: $2,687,227
NOTE: Information from Boxofficemojo.com
Cinema Corner 