4/5 stars

Argo was the perfect choice for the opening gala film of LIFF26. A based-on-a-true-story thriller, Ben Affleck’s third foray into direction (after The Town and Gone Baby Gone) has gained attention from festivals worldwide and is held to be Oscar worthy.

It may not live up to its high expectations, but as a fantastic historical drama that thrills and entertains, it’s worth a see. Although it opens with a brief history of Iran the film isn’t a history lecture, yet it opens our eyes to an interesting period of history unknown to many.

It is well written, ensuring it sticks to the facts, to quite a realistic effect. Starting off slow, it soon picks up pace with a climax full of suspense. To relieve us from this tension, Argo is surprisingly funny, thanks to the fantastic Alan Arkin and John Goodman.

Thoroughly entertaining, dramatic and thrilling Argo is a great watch with an astonishing story. An extra half an hour could have made it outstanding allowing for more character development.

Emily Murray