Rating: 5/5

Three-Word Summary: Cold spy negotiations

It’s incredible to discover that some of the best stories, especially those of intrigue and suspense, are true.

Such is the tale of Brooklyn attorney James Donovan and his work in negotiating the release of American operatives during the Cold War.

Initially, Donovan is called upon to represent convicted Russian spy, Rudolf Abel, during Abel’s trial. Despite public outcry, Donovan fought to save Abel’s life.

This proved a prudent course of action, because an American pilot, Francis Powers, was later captured in Russia and tried for espionage. With Donovan’s help, two countries negotiated to exchange the two prisoners in West Berlin.

It should come as no surprise that Steven Spielburg and Tom Hanks would be able to pull of this true tale with excellence, much like they did in their many prior collaborations (see: Saving Private Ryan).

One of the most poignant part of the film were the subtle parallels drawn between the conditions in the two countries. Indeed, this was one of the main themes of the film — because despite our differences, both the USA and USSR utilized espionage during the Cold War.

For example, while riding a train, Donovan witnesses the deaths of a few Germans trying to cross the newly-built Berlin wall. Back in Brooklyn, he sees some young boys leaping over fences, in peace. This and several other instances demonstrated the stark contrast between the sides of the war.

The strongest part of the film was Hanks as Donovan. Despite significant odds and doubt, he manages to do the right thing and maintain his morals. It would have been much easier to not care about Abel or leave the Powers to the mercy of the Soviet Union. But he rose to the occasion and averted disaster.

Besides the portrayal of Donovan as an under-appreciated American hero, I was impressed by the characterization of Abel. No secret was made that he was indeed a Russian spy, but the audience still found ways to empathize with the man.

Donovan uses this argument during the trial, explaining that Abel was simply doing his job and should not be executed for being a spy. After all, he says, wouldn’t we want the Russians to treat one of our captured spies with dignity and respect?

This was an amazing story deftly crafted into a meaningful film. Without much hype or buzz, this still may stand as one of the best films of the year.