This is the story of Robert Hanssen, an FBI agent who was a traitor, selling intel to the Soviets over the span of 22 years, before finally being arrested in February of 2001. The film chronicles the final two months leading up to the arrest.
The film is not flashy, there are no big explosions, no big shootouts, no car chases, yet it is an still an exciting foray into the world of the FBI. It moves forward at a slow, methodical pace that feels genuine as it slowly draws you in. At first, the more you learn of Hanssen, the harder it is for Eric to believe him to be a bad guy. He comes across as a man who is a strong believer in faith and country, dutifully doing his work, and something of an inspiration to other agents. But, the deeper you go, and the more you listen, Hanssen reveals himself as the pervert and right wing nut that he is. It is an odd dichotomy, someone who is so creepy, yet seemingly so dedicated to his work.
Chris Cooper is excellent in his portrayal of Hanssen. He is deliciously creepy, terribly charismatic, and just plain whacky. No reasoning is offered up for the actions, and they didn't need to, Cooper conveys so much in how he becomes Hanssen. Playing Eric O'Neill is Ryan Phillipe, an actor that I have never particularly cared for, yet his bland presence works perfectly well for the character. There is something about his unassuming and charisma killing blandness that works perfectly for the clerk that no one would suspect. Rounding out the cast are Laura Linney as O'Neill's handler, and Caroline Dhavernas as O'Neill's wife.
The film was directed by Billy Ray, who co-wrote the screenplay with Adam Mazer and William Rotko. They have crafted a film that is finely tuned, not a scene out of place, not a line wasted. A strong film that knows what it wants to do, and does it.
Bottomline. I was truly drawn into the film, into the reality it creates. Is it perfect? No. While it may not be, it is still a wound up thriller that is still involving, even with already knowing the outcome. Strong performances and a nice direction highlight a first rate thriller.
Recommended.