by Robert Nichols

Created on: February 22, 2007   Last Updated: August 19, 2010

Inspired by the true story of a rogue F.B.I agent who was single handedly responsible for the greatest security breach in the history of the U.S. This movie stars Chris Cooper, Ryan Phillippe, and Laura Linney. This movie was not what I expected. There is very little action. The plot line at first appears to be dragging, but before you realize it the movie is over. It is after the movie when you realize that although it seemed to be slow you just spent the better part of two hours at the edge of your seat.

The story line is well thought out and brilliantly executed. Ryan Phillipe plays an aspiring F.B.I agent. While in training he is given the task of gathering information on a known traitor within the F.B.I. He is given a position as Chris Cooper's assistant, Cooper being the traitor. At this point the tension, which will remain until the credits, begins. It is subtle at first but constantly grows. The cat and mouse game between Cooper and Phillippe is utterly absorbing. Both actors are convincing in their roles. Cooper's portrayal of an near insane genius is haunting.

The plot thickens as Phillippe's character begins to doubt the facts presented to him by an F.B.I operative played by Laura Linney. The movie touches on subjects from treason to religion. This is a must see for everyone who likes movies that require intelligent viewers.

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