The Men Who Stare at Goats (Review)

The Men Who Stare At Goats

Directed By: Grant Heslov
Starring: George Clooney, Ewan McGregor, Jeff Bridges, Kevin Spacey


What’s It About

Things aren't going so well for reporter Bob Wilton (Ewan McGregor). Recently divorced because his wife has decided to shack it up with his Editor, Bob decides to go to Iraq, but ends up in Kuwait, in an attempt to find some sort of purpose, a good story, and a way to impress his now ex wife. During this journey, Bob meets special operations officer Lyn Cassidy (George Clooney). Lyn is on a mission and is willing to take Bob along with him. Did I mention that Lyn is a “Jedi Warrior” for the United States Army? Yeah… things aren’t going so well for Bob.

Thoughts

“What’s a Jedi Warrior?” Apparently our Army’s fascination with Star Wars back in the 70’s went just a bit too far. Within the narrative of the main story, the genesis of the “New Earth Army”, a program started by our nation’s army to produce super soldiers that could vanquish the enemy through psychic methods which were not limited to running through walls, is told by Lyn Cassidy. Lyn also recounts his initiation into this program through a series of flashbacks. I honestly did not know what to expect from this smartly written adaption of Jon Ronson’s book, but once the lights turned off, my questions were answered right away with a soldier starring vigorously at a wall.

“You think you can’t dance, because someone once told you that you can’t!” Funny is the word to use when describing The Men Who Stare at Goats. George Clooney and gang will have you laughing and having a great time with all the craziness that unfolds before your eyes. Scenes that “showcase” George Clooney’s hippie dancing skills is worth a ticket price alone. Jeff Bridges as Bill Django, the father of the “New Earth Army” was a riot! I always enjoy his work and this is no exception. Stephen Root’s cameo as Gus Lacey, a man who believes he could kill hamsters by just starring at them, reminded me of his role in Office Space as Milton! Ewan McGregor and Kevin Spacey were also wonderful in their respective roles. I just wish Spacey would have had more time on screen since he really seemed to enjoy his role.

Sporting a great ensemble cast, a great script and carefully directed by Grant Heslov, The Men Who Stare at Goats is a psychic powered comedy that should not be missed!

Memorable Moment

Lyn’s big revelation to Bob is he’s a Jedi. Bob has no idea what a Jedi is! If you've seen the Star Wars prequels with Ewan McGregor, you will be on the floor LYAO!

FYI

According to Paul Lister (one the film’s producers), the US Army did not offer their help in any way shape or form. I wonder why…?

Score

7 out of 10