Eric O’Neill (Phillippe), a computer specialist who wants to be made an agent, is assigned as a clerk for Robert Hanssen, an agent with 25 years in the field. O’Neill is asked to write down everything Hanssen does. O’Neill’s told it’s an investigation on Hanssen’s sexual habits. O’Neill quickly becomes suspicious and discovers the real reason he has been hired to investigate Hanssen. Within weeks, the crusty Hanssen, a devout Catholic, has warmed to O’Neill, who grows to respect Hanssen. As tensions rise, O’Neill is pushed to his limits.
I dismissed Phillippe as an actor before this film, but he really shines here. He provides the insecurity needed for the audience to really connect. Cooper, as always, is at the top of the game. He portrays a man that you respect and seems good, but the whole time you know facts about him to the contrary. Not many actors could pull off this character, and Cooper is perfect in the role.
The most amazing thing about the film is that it is a true story. The stress and tension that O’Neill goes through seems unbearable. The life of an FBI agent is not one that I envy in any way. If you have not seen this thriller, I would suggest doing so right away. The acting is top-notch with a story that will make you wonder about the secrets that people keep.
If you have seen the film, what do you think? What is your favorite film starring Chris Cooper? Let us know in the comments below.
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Absolutely agree with you. An excellent film and Chris Cooper has never been better, which is saying alot. But the entire cast gives top rate performances.
This has to rank as my top Chris Cooper role but my second and third are "Lone Star" and "October Sky." The former because of the depth of that performance and the latter because no one else could have balanced stoicism and vulnerability the way Chris did.