Watch out for Fair Game

I left Cannes a day before seeing Doug Liman’s Fair Game, so I had no idea how good of a film it was until I screened it this evening. We do have to wait for reviews, because that will likely make the difference, but it is hard to imagine this film, and its stars, not figuring in this year’s Oscar race.

The film IS mostly about their relationship, but it is also about our relationship with our country and our obligation to use the rights we are so lucky to have. It is unapologetic in its point of view, wholly political, and the kind of Hollywood film that will feed right wing TV pundits for weeks.

I was under the impression that Sean Penn did not have a leading role, but he is as much the star of this film as Watts is. Both are in top form — they play off each other, to each other.¬† Roles this juicy don’t come along very often – for men or women – and Penn and Watts take full advantage of it. Doug Liman also does marvelous work, serving as both the DP and the director.

I could be wrong; it wouldn’t be the first time. But I won’t be surprised if it starts landing in the big five for director and screenplay. More on this tomorrow in the column.