Changeling

Many people will say that this film is a refreshing reminder that Angelina Jolie can really act, a reminder of the talent for which she became famous in the first place, and the reason she won her Oscar. But to be honest, that’s an unnecessary way to sell this film. Everyone knows Jolie can act, and to discuss the media circus that follows her around the world would be to do an injustice to this film.

However this doesn’t lessen the impact of Jolie’s performance as Christine Collins, a mother fighting against the corrupt LAPD to find her missing son. Jolie is able to access emotions no one would ever want to experience. The authenticity of her performance makes you forget that you are watching Angelina Jolie, and that is precisely her job. Unlike Jolie’s life in the spotlight, Collins visibly flinches at the flashing bulbs the press are pointing in her direction.

But this isn’t a one-woman showcase. The whole cast are excellent, including John Malkovich as a high profile preacher and Collins' only support in her quest, and Jeffrey Donovan as the police captain who refuses to listen to her pleas. Every person lends their weight to create an ensemble performance that supports the film’s bigger agenda, which takes the plot in a surprising direction.

The Los Angeles that director Clint Eastwood creates is effortlessly authentic. From the clothes to the cars everything is pure 1920s chic. The outstanding cinematography also means that it looks beautiful, enhancing Jolie’s haunted expressions.

My one quibble is that it is slightly overlong. While the story goes further than you would expect, there are some scenes that feel like they could have been sacrificed to reach the ending sooner.

Nevertheless, this is an intense experience, and while you shouldn’t go to see it hoping for a good time, its' impact will remain with you long after you’ve left the cinema. Take tissues!

Changeling is now showing at cinemas everywhere.

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