[The_Return]

Changeling (2008)

...and so Oscar season begins anew.

When this movie wasn't focused on Jolie's character, it was simply stunning. I don't think Jolie was really bad by any means, but the film had such an astounding supporting cast that she looked pretty dull by comparison.

The story itself isn't anything overly groundbreaking, but it lends itself well to some moments of wonderfully intense drama. This one will do well at the Oscars folks, I'd bet good money on it.

If you like Eastwood's recent style of filmmaking, this one wont disappoint. I wouldnt go out on a limb to recommend it, but it's certainly a well made, well acted and simply great movie.

HOWEVER - I dont think I've seen a movie so explicitly beg for an Oscar since Harvey Korman's speech in Blazing Saddles. I dont know if Eastwood or the screenwriter are to blame, but some dialogue near the end of the film was beyond pandering.