Review: In The Valley Of Elah
Haven’t seen Crash, but I’m beginning to become very fond of Paul Haggis and his small pool of work, between this and ‘The Black Donnellys.’ I didn’t occur to me until now; he directed my most favorite forty minutes of television ever; the Donnellys pilot episode. Jones, in an Oscar-nominated role, gives a touching, inspired performance, and Theron gives a performance that I rank as my favorite. The comrodery (I know) they develop is sweet, as well as the one Hank develops with her son, which is when he explains to him the story of David and Goliath, which took place in the valley of Elah. I couldn’t tell if the film was anti-war or not, but any depiction of the army is honorable in my eyes, and I have strange fascination and urge to one day join. Can’t ignore feelings. Jason Patric is awesome as well; slowly getting into, and loving, all his work. Overall, it’s a sweet and heartwrenching tale of loss, secret investigation, and forgiveness. Wouldn’t have been the same with Clint Eastwood.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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