War Book

I've just watched the BBC4 showing of this remarkable film. I wasn't too sure I would like it after reading the synopsis but after viewing I feel moved to review it (and only the second one to do so, I see).

You would think that a film that mainly takes place in a conference room would be dry, dull and stagy, but nothing could be further from the truth. For starters, the direction and cinematography turn what would be an ordinary meeting of suits into a pressure pot of disparate views, agreements, scenarios and personalities. Add to that a script that doesn't waste a single word and is powerful and intelligent. A fantastic cast (a reverential nod to Antony Sher) who are completely believable delivering some juicy lines. Add to that the doomsday scenario they discuss from the viewpoints of their own departments. And what you have here is probably the quickest 90 minutes in the history of cinema.

Yes, I liked it, I liked it a lot. Not only that, I'll be thinking about this film for days to come. Highly recommended if you want your intellect and your ideologies examined and tested.