DVD Review: In The Valley Of Elah
Paul Haggis' Profoundly Thoughtful Film On The Evils Of War
Jan 20, 2009
Paul Haggis writes a tightly knit story of retired military officer, Hank Deerfield, (played brilliantly by Tommy Lee Jones) searching for his son, Mike, who has just returned from Iraq. He is told that is son is AWOL and this is something that this retired sergeant cannot believe that this is in his son's character to do. Deerfield is a man not given easily to his feelings, only to a strict sense of what is right or wrong, so he decides to find out for himself what is going on. He has no idea of the incredible stonewalling he will face from the military base his son was stationed at, nor the dangerous embroilment he will become involved in, searching for the truth.
As he enters a "catch-22" while looking for help from the local police, a beleaguered, jaded, single-mother detective, Emily Sanders reluctantly finds herself drawn to help him. This character is powerfully portrayed by Charlize Theron. You will find yourself looking twice to see if that is her portraying this character and therein, you can see this gifted actress shine.
As the uneasy friendship and collaboration builds between these two characters, there are unexpected twists and turns that develop from the statements of Mike's fellow soldiers that returned with him from Iraq. Here is where Haggis shows his profound understanding of when human nature can take a dark turn.
Other memorable performances include Susan Sarandon as Deerfield's wife Joan. Although seen briefly in the film, she lends gravitas and dignity to the role as a suffering wife and mother. Jason Patric as Lieutenant Kirklander portrays a military liason who seems to sincerely want to help with solving the case, yet is also clearly seen as a man riddled with his own conflicts. Other veteran actors include Frances Fisher (ex-wife of Clint Eastwood), Wes Chatham,Jake McLaughlin, Barry Corbin (of "No Country For Old Men"). Josh Brolin, also of "No Country..." and James Franco appear in fleeting but pivotal roles.
In Closing
Although this film was made in 2007, and received mixed reviews, this is one of those films about war you will not forget and will provoke discussion. Every generation has its "Dr. Strangelove", "Platoon" or "Apocalypse Now", films that make people think about America's actions, its place in the world and the devastating, yet insidiously subtle effects of post-war afflictions.
"In The Valley Of Elah" is one such film for the present generation.
 |
