International thriller takes its own pace

Sydney Pollack directs old-fashioned Hollywood movies that run the

full gamut, from comedy to drama to thriller. Few directors have the

extensive variety of credits represented by Pollack’s “Three Days of

the Condor,” “Out of Africa,” “Tootsie” and “The Firm.” His

productions always have an adult audience in mind, with screenplays

that are intelligent, relevant and to the point.

Pollack’s latest, “The Interpreter,” successfully draws the viewer

into the personal lives of the two main characters. They play out

their fates against a backdrop of international intrigue.

Nicole Kidman is cool and quietly sophisticated as the United

Nations interpreter at the center of the story. She accidentally

overhears an assassination plot against an African leader in a little

known language she happens to understand.

Sean Penn adds to his growing reputation as one of the best actors

of our time. He is well-cast as the ambivalent Secret Service agent

assigned to investigate the interpreter’s claims and protect her from

harm.

The political realities of today’s Third World are very much on

display in the central story. The authenticity is enhanced by the use

of many real rooms in the United Nations building throughout the

movie. The 1950s look and feel of the architecture adds to the Cold

War mentality that Pollack wants to recreate.

But Pollack turns away from the constant heart-pounding style of

many spy thrillers. The bursts of excitement are controlled by a

steady drumbeat of suspense. While this measured speed is welcome for

a grown-up crowd, the film’s pace at times is too slow and deliberate

for a two-hour running time.

Still, this movie is a cut above average compared to its peers and

directed by a quiet master of the trade. Not great, but a very solid

effort worthy of fans who appreciate this genre.

* JOHN DEPKO is a Costa Mesa resident and a senior investigator

for the Orange County public defender’s office.