Release Date: February16th, 2007 by Universal Pictures. The Cast: Chris Cooper, Ryan Phillippe, Laura Linney, Caroline Dhavernas, Gary Cole, Dennis Haysbert, Kathleen Quinlan, Bruce Davison, Jonathan Watton, Tom Barnett. Directed by Billy Ray. BASIC PREMISE: Eric (Phillipe) joins the FBI and participates in an undercover internal investigation an agent who must investigate the activities of his boss, Robert (Cooper), a suspected mole. ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: This low-key drama gradually increases in tension through effective character development, although it does have some intense, nail-biting scenes later in the second act. What makes this film truly engaging is the character development which brings the characters to life. Both Eric and Robert have a life outside of their job—they both have a wife to come home to. It also helps that Chris Cooper completely sinks into his role as Robert and does a fine job balancing his good and bad qualities. Laura Linney shows up as the head of the internal investigation who gives orders to Eric. Unfortunately, the casting of Ryan Phillipe as Eric is a poor choice given how wooden his performance seems, which makes his character seem rather dull. Co-writer/director Billy Ray does an impressive job behind the camera while giving the film a slick look and focusing plot without any convoluted scenes. Compared to the recent similar film The Good Shepherd, Breach feels much less confusing to watch and, ultimately, much more engaging. SPIRITUAL VALUE: Even intelligent people like Robert who immerse themselves in religious beliefs and have a happy and healthy family can abuse their power unethically and unlawfully. Some people have hidden agendas, but, after all, a lie has no legs and eventually becomes revealed in one way or another no matter how smart they think they are. INSULT TO YOUR INTELLIGENCE: None. NUMBER OF TIMES I CHECKED MY WATCH: 0 IN A NUTSHELL: Intelligent and suspenseful. Chris Cooper delivers a terrific performance in one of his best roles ever. RECOMMENDED WAY TO WATCH: Movie Theater Main Page Alphabetical Menu Chronological Menu The "B" Menu ______________________________________________________ |