Argo

To say that diplomats in foreign countries seldom have it easy is quite the understatement. Feelings then must go out to American staff, based in Tehran, around whom this film is centred.

With the recently overthrown Shah of Iran receiving protection in Texas, the furious people of Iran take out their anger on the Embassy, taking all the staff they can find as hostages. Only six escape, but on these foreign soils their options are limited and they seek refuge with the Canadian Ambassador.

Tony Mendez (Affleck), the CIA specialist charged with securing their release, needs a plan – and where better to get one than from watching Battle for the Planet of the Apes with his son?! Argo, the fake sci-fi film for which the embassy members are to claim to be filming location scouts, is born. But with such a convoluted plan, and the proximity of Canada to America, will everything come together, or will Argo contribute to, rather than prevent the Americans’ gruesome fate?

Based on the Iran hostage crisis of 1979-1981, a lot of effort has clearly gone in to ensuring realism, especially in the actions of the CIA whilst plotting all the necessary details required for Argo to be a successful mission.

Argo is the latest hit from budding director Ben Affleck (Gone Baby Gone and The Town). As Mendez, he also provides a compelling performance, juxtaposing the tension of the true situation with the ruse of Argo. Supported by a strong cast, you’ll feel wholly immersed as the plot thickens. Make sure you see Argo on the big screen, before it’s exposed as a cover-up!

Robert Gardner