Salty With A Chance of Spyballs

18 August, 2010 - No Comments by Marco Fiori - Films

Having just watched Angelina Jolie star in spy thriller Salt, you can’t help think how fortunate the film has been with the recent US and Russia spy saga. It seems Cold War mistrust still exists in the twenty-first century and clandestine activities continue to run riot in both Russia and the US/UK. What the news has done is indirectly market Salt a pseudo-realistic thriller. No amount of viral PR could illicit the same result than the Chapman news has and while watching, you can’t help but draw comparisons between reality (however far-fetched it is) and the film.

Anyway context aside, it’s difficult to discuss Salt. It’s a film that weaves so effectively through the clever script, that talking about anything but the trailer, risks ruining it. Throughout the film, the writers manage to sustain your second-guessing as more characters reveal their truths. Paths interlink, alliances are broken and surprises are in abundance. Salt is an extremely competent narrative that’s helped by its frantic pace. It doesn’t slow down and refuses to release its grip on the audience. It’s definitely not a film that risks putting you to sleep.

Spy sleeper cells have always been loved by conspiracy theorists, and as more Cold War information is gradually made publicly available, Salt’s concept will garner more truth. Sure, there’s a few over-the-top moments that have little purpose outside of drama and shifting the film forward, but the majority of the set-pieces are believable. Consider the fact that its one of Jolie’s strongest performances to date and you’ve got one very polished film.

She takes total ownership of the character and portrays Evelyn Salt as a rugged cross between Bond, Bourne and Ethan Hunt. Salt is quick thinking, ruthless and extremely engaging. Highly recommended.