The Interpreter

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Sean Penn, Catherine Keener
Directed by: Sydney Pollack
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama, Thriller
2005

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: A United Nations translator (Nicole Kidman) overhears two men speaking about an assassination plot against a controversial African leader. Two federal agents (Sean Penn, Catherine Keener) begin an investigation into the affairs, but the more they uncover, the more the interpreter seems to be not all she says she is.
Review:

Tim: This is an intelligent, entertaining political thriller that gives us an inside look at the United Nations headquarters. The plot may not be as huge or revolutionary as some political thrillers, but a great deal of the film's power comes from the fact that it is realistic and believable. All of the events of the film could really happen, and that draws us into the movie.

Nicole Kidman is very good in the role. I don't agree with many of her film choices, but this one was a winner. She needs to take more of these kind of roles. She also interacts very well with Sean Penn. Penn is also good in his role. He's not particularly great on his own, but paired with Kidman, he is quite good. I also like the always dependable Catherine Keener, although I wish she had more to do.

The movie is a very well made thriller. There is a possible assassination plot, where the key witness is also the key suspect, and there is only a small matter of time before a number of people could be dead and an international conspiracy will unravel on American soil.

Sydney Pollack is a respected and proven director and this is a well made movie. Sure, it is far from perfect, but its flaws are kept to a minimum and there are a number of amazing scenes (especially the incredible bus scene- watch for it, as it is fantastic). The Interpreter is an explosive thriller that is very entertaining.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Firm, The Three Days of the Condor, The Assassination of Richard Nixon