In the Loop

To start off with: In my review of Excalibur I forgot to mention the year that it came out and that was 1981. It was also one of my picks for best movies of 1981.

In the Loop (R)-*** (2009)

Writers: Jesse Armstrong, Simon Blackwell, Tony Roche and Armando Ianucci based on BBC series
Director: Armando Ianucci
Starring: Peter Capaldi, Tom Hollander, Anna Chlumsky, James Gandolfini, Mimi Kennedy

In the Loop has what most comedies are missing today and that is smart and funny dialogue. Based on the BBC series this is a delightful and fast paced comedy with wicked lines and nasty characters. You have to pay close attention or you will miss some classic zingers. The whole cast is delightful especially Peter Capaldi and Tom Hollander whose line readings are an example of great comic timing. Also ready and game for the fast paced dialogue are James Gandolfini shedding the Tony Soprano inflections and showing what a multi-faceted actor he is. Also not seen since the My Girl period is Anna Chlumsky who has grown up and become a good mature actress. This movie won't stay with you a long time after but it is great fun keeping up with the dialogue and wicked humor. These are some nasty characters who are funny as long as you don't have to be around them in real life.