Flags of our Fathers - 2/5

This movie is passable in its presentation of war, muddled in its statements on hero worship, and goes on far too long to do justice to its subject matter. The battle scenes, acting, and score are all serviceable, but the writing and directing are noticeably lacking here, bringing nothing to the table. Its greatest crime is being a boring war movie, which is downright difficult to pull off.

Closest comparison: It’s like We Were Soldiers by way of Thank You For Smoking.

Setting: War
Plot: War / Drama
Tone: Drama

Kill the Messenger (2014) - 3/5

This is a by-the-numbers investigative journalism exposé movie and as such it’s well executed. The story is pretty straightforward and holding to the historical facts doesn’t leave much room for cinematic creativity. It’s well acted, well written, and paced to keep your attention, but unless you’re interested in the historical events you may find yourself bored. Jeremy Renner is excellent in the leading role, and without him the film would collapse under its own weight.

Closest comparison: It’s more All the President's Men than it is Erin Brockovitch.

Setting: Political Drama
Plot: Journalistic Investigation
Tone: Family Drama