This film is a double delight: you learn something while being entertained. Based on the true story of U.S. Congressman Wilson whose position on three key committees allowed him to arm the Afghanistan Mujahedin and help them triumph over the Russian invaders. It was a win-win situation at the time—we helped end the Cold War by helping Afghanistan overthrow our mutual enemy. Only in the light of current events, do we understand the consequences of that covert war. But, as I said, you will be entertained, especially by the performances of Hanks as Wilson and Philip Seymour Hoffman as Gust, an unlikely C.I.A. agent. They are both splendid. Julia Roberts takes the part of Joanne Herring the real-life socialite who joined Wilson in the scheme to defeat the Communists. Roberts looks great. Amy Adams proves that she is just as good playing a real girl as she was playing a Princess in Enchanted. But the real star of the film is the crackling smart dialogue of Aaron Sorkin. It’s like watching the best of The West Wing and really made me miss those first few years of that terrific TV show. Did I mention that it’s also quite amusing? Knowledge, amusement and Oscar-worthy performances all rolled up into one film. Gary says A– and I agree. GRADE A-