Wag the Dog (1998) - Movie Review

Before it happened in real life, it happened in Wag the Dog. Hopefully, though, Wag the Dog was a little more farfetched than the Clinton sex scandal. Wag the Dog is crazy: they manage to elude the public, news media, and even the CIA and fake a war in Albania. They create a war hero and then kill him off. And they manage to keep dozens of people from telling the truth.

The star of the movie is Robert De Niro, and he is as smooth as butter in his role. He's slick and convincing, and funny. Anne Heche also stars, and while she isn't as convincing, she's still an excellent fit. But the real magic of the movie comes from the lesser role of Dustin Hoffman, who plays movie director Motss, who's eccentric, stuttering, and hilarious. This has to be one of his best performances ever...

In terms of story, Wag the Dog is witty and original. Filled with slick dialogue and subtle comedy, it is sure fun for any age. It does get boring at some points, but there are some scenes that really made me laugh out loud. And Woody Harrelson, as the crazed convict/war hero is hilarious! Anyway, as the movie progresses, the movie gets weirder and more farfetched, but hell, it's a movie!

Wag the Dog might be pushing it to the extreme, but it has enough comedy to span the two hours. And remember, it isn't a copy of real life... The Clinton scandal began after this movie was released.

Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.