Now here is a man to make a movie about! Charlie Wilson is a charismatic, loveable politician (sounds unbelievable already), who is constantly surrounded by beautiful women, expensive whiskey and controversial use of his professional powers. Now get one of the most charismatic and loveable American actors of all time, Mr. Tom Hanks and place him in the starring role along side America's sweetheart, Miss Julia Roberts, then throw in Oscar winner Phillip Seymour-Hoffman for comedic relief and you have yourself a hit any which way you slice it! How else could you get so many people to watch and actually enjoy a movie about the Russian cold war in Afghanistan.

The true story of Congressman Charlie Wilson is an educational and eye-opening one. He may be a man of many flaws, morally and ethically, but his personal efforts to help end the suffering and bloodshed in Afghanistan during the 1980s are without question inspiring. Along with wealthy (whatever her professional title is) Joanne Herring and Gust Avocados of the CIA, these three raised the funds and political awareness necessary to supply Afghans with the weapons and training they needed to defend themselves against the invading communists. These three people not only saved the lives of millions of innocent men, women and children but they did so not for money or wealth or recognition, they did it because they saw an extreme injustice being committed and they knew that America could help. They knew that they could help. As a result Mr. Charles Wilson is honoured by the military with the highest title ever awarded to a civilian, that of "honoured colleague". An extremely proud and touching moment in this man's otherwise rowdy and questionable life.

"Charlie Wilson's War" is a typical American war movie. If you have seen others and enjoyed them, you will enjoy this one as well. As expected Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts and Phillip Seymour-Hoffman all deliver outstanding performances. There is a reason that these three are Oscar winning, high paid performers. An honourable mention goes to Amy Adams who plays the congressman's personal aid, Bonnie Bawk. It is so refreshing and exciting to see Adams in a more challenging and grown-up role. She is not playing the usual giddy, high strung, girl next door that she always gets cast into. This time she finally showed her true potential as an actress. She exhibited a lot more range and showed that she can easily slide into a dramatic and serious role as well. Good for her.