The Men Who Stare At Goats Film Review

The Men Who Stare at Goats, by fledgling director Grant Heslov, is one of the most funny and outrageous films to come out since 2008's Burn After Reading. It is an avant- garde and sometimes silly tale of a news reporter on a mission.

The story begins with a discontent and boring guy, aptly named Bob (Ewan McGregor) who travels to the Middle East after his wife leaves him for a one armed man. He finds more than he bargained for in the eccentric, psychic power wielding Lyn (George Clooney). Bob is immediately swept up in Lyn's lunacy and they embark on various adventures where they are kidnapped by Al-Qaeda, drive into a rock (Iraq) and dissipate clouds with their minds to name a few.

The story is told in part by flashbacks to the founding of a special division in the US Army called the Jedi, headed up by scene stealing Bill Django (Jeff Bridges). The casting is excellent with supporting roles going to veteran actors Kevin Spacey and Stephen Lang. Also, the irony that McGregor starred in the billion dollar Star Wars franchise was not lost on the casting director and does much to humor the audience.

One of the strengths of the film is its searing wit and fast paced story line. For what seems like an aimless adventure, the plot unfolds carefully and comes full circle. Many elements of the story are centered around Vietnam and the war in Iraq which can become touchy subjects. Here, the director is careful not to get heavy handed with his message, but deftly incorporates political themes into the film as well. Indeed, from beginning to end, The Men Who Stare at Goats is a silly and satisfying romp into the world of war and psychic powers.

Showings are being held at Red Rivers Theatres in Concord. Visit their site here and join in on the fun.