Bridge of Spies (2/8/2016)

Rated PG-13 for some violence and brief strong language.

Starring Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, Scott Shepherd, Amy Ryan and Alan Alda

Directed by Steven Spielberg (Lincoln, War Horse, Saving Private Ryan, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List, E.T., Raiders of the Lost Ark and Jaws)

Did you even doubt that a Steven Spielberg film with Tom Hanks would be anything but incredible?

A dramatic thriller set against the backdrop of a series of historic events, Bridge of Spies tells the story of James Donovan (Tom Hanks), a Brooklyn lawyer who finds himself thrust into the center of the Cold War when the CIA sends him on a near impossible mission to negotiate the release of a captured American U-2 pilot. High stakes and suspense power a story inspired by true events that capture the essence of a man who risked everything and vividly brings his personal journey to life.

When I heard Steven Spielberg was making a spy drama, I was all in. Then I heard Tom Hanks was in the lead role…and I thought, “just take my money now!”

Bridge of Spies is a gripping and smart film that will keep you wanting more from beginning to end. Espionage thrillers are always filled with deception, double-dealing, lies and betrayal; and Spielberg delivers all of that with this amazing “true story.”

The script, polished by the Coen Brothers, has plenty of humor to balance the heavy political quarreling. Like the impending danger of being in East Berlin that is balanced by the only real problem he faces…having his coat stolen by some kids.

As expected, Hanks is in superb form. Every line, every look, every gesture is thoughtful and compelling. And Mark Rylance is just as good…if not better.

With outstanding direction from Steven Spielberg, a mostly-compelling story, and excellent performances from Tom Hanks and Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies is “Theater Worthy.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is no sex or nudity but we do see some disturbing images like when some kids are trying to cross the wall and are shot by snipers. We see a boy get beaten by German soldiers and a man tortured with buckets of water.

There are only 2 F-words and some other profanities.

CONVERSATTION STARTER:

1. Is what Jim does in the film the “popular” thing to do or the right thing to do?


2. Have you ever faced a similar decision?


3. What did you do?

Read Isaiah 1:17

Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.


4. How can we live out that verse in our schools this week?