State of Play ***

Cast: Russell Crowe, Rachel McAdams, Ben Affleck, Jason Bateman, Robin Wright Penn, Helen Mirren, Jeff Daniels
Director: Kevin Macdonald
Running Length: 1:58
MPAA Classification: PG-13

Congressman Stephen Collins (Affleck) is the chairman of a committee reviewing whether Pointcorp should be used to outsource homeland security. One of his researchers apparently commits suicide, and it comes out that he had an affair with her. Collins believes that she was murdered because of his position. Journalist Cal McAffrey (Crowe) is his friend and a top reporter at the Washington Globe. He begins investigating the murder with a newbie blogger named Della Frye (McAdams). Soon, he is digging into areas that may be better left untouched, if he wants to continue living.

“State of Play” covers a lot of material in its two hour running time, being based on a five hour BBC miniseries. There are layers upon layers of story here, and while a little confusing at times, it is satisfying. The acting is solid, especially from Affleck and Crowe. This is a smart thriller that provides a twist ending that shows that all is not what it initially seems. “State of Play” is worth checking out.

Beowulf ***Cast: Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, Robin Wright Penn, Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, Brendan Gleeson, Crispin Glover, Alison Lohman
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Running Length: 1:55
MPAA Classification: PG-13

In 6th century Denmark, Kin Hrothgar’s (Hopkins) kingdom is being terrorized by the monster Grendel (Glover). The king calls for someone to come and defeat Grendel. Beowulf (Winstone) answers that call, seeking glory more than gold. On his first night there, Grendel attacks and Beowulf must deal with him. But, Grendel is not the only creature waiting to terrorize the kingdom. Grendel’s mother (Jolie) and a dragon also lie in wait.

Computer animated and only loosely following the epic poem, “Beowulf” is an entertaining feast for the eyes. I think that animation was the way to go with this story, and the images are very realistic. Voice talents of Winstone, Hopkins, Jolie, Gleeson, and Penn all fit well with the characters. Purists will probably be disappointed with the changes, but for those not familiar with the story will probably have no problems. “Beowulf” is a great example of how far CGI has come, and an excellent diversion for those craving some action.