Cast
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Tom Hanks
as Charlie Wilson
Julia Roberts
as Joanne Herring
Philip Seymour Hoffman
as Gust Avrakotos
Amy Adams
as Bonnie Bach
Emily Blunt
as Jane Liddle
Om Puri
as President Zia
Shiri Appleby
as Jailbait - Charlie's Angels
Rachel Nichols
as Suzanne - Charlie's Angels
Wynn Everett
as Receptionist - Charlie's Angel
Jud Tylor
as Crystal Lee
John Slattery
as Cravely
Erick Avari
as Avi Perlman
Cyia Batten
as Stacey
Denis O'Hare
as Harold Holt
Ned Beatty
as Doc Long
Crew
Director
- Mike Nichols
Producer
- Tom Hanks
- Gary Goetzman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Charlie Wilson's War examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Mike Nichols brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2007, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Charlie Wilson's War took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $75.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 223 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1781 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Charlie Wilson's War shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Right Stuff, which focuses more on action than character development, Charlie Wilson's War offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rabbit-Proof Fence and Dante's Peak explore similar territory, Charlie Wilson's War stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 19, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 42m
- Budget: $75,000,000
- Revenue: $119,483,446
Where to Watch
