Spy Game MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -2 1/2

As he awakes for his last day before retirement, CIA operative Nathan Muir (Robert Redford) learns that his protg, Tom Bishop (Brad Pitt), has been captured. Bishop now awaits execution in a Chinese prison and Muir has only 24 hours to save him. However, stuck in Washington, Muirs only recourse is to influence his fellow agents who are prepared to hang Bishop out to dry. Muir must then call upon all his skill to manipulate the situation as he is brought in by the agency to talk about his encounters with Bishop. Much of the film is told in flashback, as Muir recounts the early years getting to know and training Bishop. But can Muir find a way to get Tom out in time? SPY GAME is definitely a guy-movie with several exciting action sequences, plenty of suspense, and some top-notch acting. Director Tony Scott also makes good use of the camera, which in turn consistently heightens the intensity throughout. It should bring draw older viewers as an adult alternative to the younger attraction of recent films like HARRY POTTER and MONSTERS, INC.

As Nathan gradually brings Tom into the fold, he finds that part of being an agent of the CIA involves getting the job done whatever the cost. And as Bishop gains experience, he finds it difficult to swallow the regularity of civilian casualties during missions. However, Muir appears to have no qualms whatsoever, a further frustration for Tom. Therefore, the longer he’s with the agency, Bishop is forced to struggle with this question of collateral damage. Being a spy film, agents are often placed in harm’s way, leading to many violent encounters. Bishop also develops a relationship with a woman and sex is implied between the two. They are shown waking together at her place. However, the major offense is the foul language, with 22 obscenities and 11 regular profanities. Strong obscenities in particular make SPY GAME a loser.

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91606