A sturdy, if lackluster Bridge
– The Spielberg & Hanks combination never disappoints and the cold war era detail of “Bridge of Spies” is nothing short of spectacular. Still, something dramatic seems to be missing in the story of James B. Donovan (Hanks) a U.S. Tax attorney who helped negotiate the exchange of a Russian spy with the American U-2 pilot who was shot down over Soviet air space in 1960. The story has brilliant moments but its pacing and length seem to detract from the political drama (where is Khrushchev?). By no means a failure but a film that merely impresses, not rouses and perhaps we expect more epic from such epic filmmakers.
Rated PG-13 (for some violence and brief strong language).
Who should see it: History buffs who adore Tom Hanks.
Who should stay home: Those who thought “Lincoln” was boring.
Grade: B