The Good Shepherd

A well constructed intrigue, spanning the psuedo intellectuals from Harvard's secret society pretending to be elite patriots, to the founding of the CIA, their role in the Bay of Pigs and the interactions between the Russians and USA during the cold war. I agree that it goes slow, but that was the nature of the cold war.

The timeline jumps around but every one still looks the same and they dont explain whats going on and we were just scratching our heads the whole movie and then gave up.

I take great offense at pretentious, totally made-up, fully fictional films that nonetheless advertise themselves as being part of history. This is one of those films. And it's nothing but used toilet paper.

Do not waste your time. If you do start watching this movie, FAIR WARNING: it does not get better, EVER.

I rewatched this as a 45 year old man with my son in mind and see the flow of this movie so well executed in the outline the message that loose lips sink ships boys! (boy>Harvard>cia>steering the USA towards democracy on the back bone of Trust as the lesson in this movie.)I think it should be used as a MEANS to educate the youth about why American voters are trying prevent foreign and domestic adversaries from stealing your country.

This was released in 2006 but could (and should) have been made today. The bad reviews then most likely were because reviewers and viewers couldn't believe our government could be so corrupt. It was and is.

This film delves into the profound depths a person is willing to plunge to avoid betraying their homeland, exploring the potential personal toll of such betrayal. Edward Wilson, driven by his predetermined destiny, prioritizes his allegiance to the country over love and family, a choice stemming not solely from personal experiences but also from the haunting legacy of his father's suicide at the age of six. Wilson Sr., burdened by the shame of betraying his country, chose a tragic end, which significantly influenced his son's path. The protagonist's decision-making is further complicated by a letter from his father, left unread deliberately to emphasize that Wilson Jr. evolves independently of paternal guidance. Consequently, the ultimate choice between love, family, and country remains consistent throughout the movie. "The Good Shepherd" unfolds as a suspenseful narrative, with a mystery that intensifies as the storyline progresses. This structure mirrors the persistent questioning in Ayn Rand's "Who is John Galt?" from Atlas Shrugged, establishing a thematic parallel. The film tirelessly seeks to unravel the espionage enigma surrounding the investigated film obtained from a Russian Spy. As the puzzle pieces fall into place, the movie successfully answers the central question, providing a satisfying resolution. In essence, "The Good Shepherd" is a brilliant exploration of the impact of leading an honorable, trustworthy life as a shepherd to one's nation, even if it comes at a considerable cost. The film prompts reflection on the sacrifices made by government agents who, despite meager financial rewards, scant recognition, and forsaking nearly everything, remain dedicated to their jobs and love of their country. Besides the compelling question addressed in the film, the most crucial aspect for me is the creative manner in which the intricate conundrum is presented. "The Good Shepherd" skillfully weaves a narrative that captures the complexities of allegiance and betrayal and engages the audience through a thought-provoking and artfully executed exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of one's choices on both personal and national levels.

Okay at best. De Niro has made a movie that is too much of a slow-burn and with that the life of the movie gets sucked out of it.

Wow a movie with a lot of big name actors and so little material & SO LITTLE action... Directed by Robert De Niro (several cameo appearances as General Sullivan) this script is underperformed in many ways. Matt Damon is so tightly wound as a character he's a stiff zombie in a suit. Angelina Jolie is a pretty dress that gets to emote twice in the film (yawn). Alec Baldwin, William Hurt and even Joe Pesci are rolled out in tiny cameo wooden stereotype roles too. Evil Russian spymaster entraps Damon's son too (really.., seen it..) I can see why Hollywood LET the writers go on Strike! The only interesting person in the story was Laura, the jilted deaf lover.. & that loose end goes pffft? Ya, I gave it a: "Oof that was Rotten"

This was an interesting story with a great cast of characters about espionage and war, trust and deceit. If you expect to be entertained like you would with a James Bond or Mission Impossible film, you will quickly find an alternative. It was somewhat crushing to see Angelina Jolie emotionally destroyed after her dazzling start. Matt Damon seems unchanged and the same age throughout the imperceptible flashbacks spanning 30 years. So many other actors are given cameo appearances and quickly vanish. Ultimately, we are left with the emotionally guarded, near-mute performance of Matt Damon who wrecks his personal life by uninvolvement, and is rewarded professionally by being trusted to do more of the same work forever. The end is as dull as the beginning.