Anytime you put three such names as DiCaprio, Crowe and Scott on a single poster, buzz and hype are sure to accumulate. There is no exception with Body of Lies, a political thriller that has as much promise as star power. Unfortunately, even though DiCaprio gives a stellar performance as Roger Ferris, a CIA operative stationed in Jordan, the film fails to materialize, falling short of expectations as it is unable to register with the audience or provide for an entertaining escape.
As the film starts out, audiences are introduced to Ferris through a series of missions. While all are disturbing and gruesome to say the least, it is Ferris' moral code and sense of humanity that really registers with those watching. Unlike many other films that have operatives barely winking at the sight of a massacre, Ferris shows emotion as he cares for those around him, not wanting to lie, cheat or steal from his informants, prompting himself and the United States to help wherever possible. Sadly, help isn't always an option as Ferris is constantly forced to put his subconscious to the side, concentrating on the end goal.
On the other side of the equation is Ed Hoffman, a CIA veteran who possesses the nerve and apprehension of a pro. Rarely venturing outside of the States, Hoffman is Ferris' main informant, and it is he that must approve all of Ferris' dealings. However, since he rarely sees the grotesque sights that serve as home for his agent, Hoffman rarely understands of cares about the effects of his every decision. Instead, he is focused on the end goal; a goal that he and Langley will do anything to reach.
Sound intriguing? Of course it does. However, somewhere along the way, the formula breaks down as audience members are left feeling unaffected and unnerved from this rumored adrenaline gusher. Instead of action, audiences are greeted with drama. Instead of conflict, they get simple resolution. And instead of a non-stop conspiracy thriller, they get a film full of dialogue and development.
Over the last year or so, audiences have been greeted with stellar modern-day war films like The Kingdom and Traitor, both of which capture the essence of the story and personify it for those watching. Their characters are real, and their decisions are catastrophic; forcing audience members to think and interpret as every action unfolds unto the next. But with Body of Lies, everything moves fluidly, as each hiccup is quickly overcome and each obstacle proven too simple for either Ferris or Hoffman.
Additionally, I found myself extremely disappointed with the performance of Russell Crowe. Never showing emotion nor comprehension, Hoffman is presented in a single, unflattering form. He is one-dimensional, and for a veteran member of the CIA and a leading character in the film, the performance is neither expected nor acceptable.
On the other hand, Leonardo DiCaprio gives a triumphant performance as Ferris. Fighting hard to create anxiety and apprehension amongst those watching, DiCaprio successfully hits in all the right spots in his portrayal, giving viewers someone to watch as they become captured and engulfed in his character. His movements become theirs as they are taken on a wild chase that ends in a heated battle where Ferris is forced to decide just how much he can trust his colleagues in this tragic game that we call war.
Behind the camera, Ridley Scott does just as expected, capturing the good of the story and using it to better the overall appeal of the film. But at times, a story is just not meant to be put on the screen, and Body of Lies found itself in that position. Capped by a quickly moving conclusion, the film never allows its audience to feel or think, thus becoming a mundane constant in a world of tragic change.
