“When the Government wouldn’t help her son, she turned to those who could”- Roadside Attractions
The touching drama Viper Club tells the story of one war correspondent who was held by terrorists in the Middle East and didn’t make it home. Very heartfelt, yet unthinkable the fictional story mirrors real persons who have met their fate in the same way. The film should open more dialogue on whether family members of those held hostages should take the matter into their own hands and whether the government should be more proactive?
After finding out that her journalist son Andy Sterling (Julian Morris) is being held by terrorists in the Middle East, his mother Helen (Susan Sarandon), waits to hear from the State Department on what they are doing to get him released. Receiving contact from the terrorists she lets FBI Agent Walsh (Patrick Breen) know, but she’s told to keep them at bay as long as she can. Helen starts to get worried that the State Department may be avoiding the help she needs to get her son back. She gets contact again from the terrorists for a ransom of twenty million dollars, but the FBI again advises her not to pay while they are investigating. After two and a half months without a word she decides to make contact with the Viper Club. It’s a network of international journalists, translators, contractors, and wealthy donors who attempt to bring aid to foreigners who become victims in war zones.
The film follows Helen as she gets introduced to Sam (Matt Bomer) who’s associated with Viper who sets up a plan. Director Maryam Keshavarz who co-wrote the screenplay with Jonathan Mastro show Helen’s frustration and stress as she weaves her way through red tape and works with Viper Club. They play out the story in an earnest way as to portray the problems, events and pressures to achieve the best possible ending of the fate of the journalist.
As the terrified mother Helen, Susan Sarandon does her usual best when she plays this type of role, but I found this performance forced at times. Maybe it’s the script or the direction, but she doesn’t come across convincing or genuine enough considering the fate that has been put upon Helen. That said, it’s hard to depict the feelings of anyone that’s in Helen’s situation where a loved one may be tortured or even killed by a group of extremists. So each viewer is left to decide for themselves what they would do if they were in the same situation.
Viper Club has been rated R for language and some disturbing images.
“The film is dedicated to the many international conflict journalists and human aid workers who put themselves in harm’s way, as well as their families back home. In tribute to Americans James Foley, Steven Sotloff, Abdul-Rahman, Peter Kassig and Luke Sommers.”
“Hundreds of brave journalists and aid workers are kidnapped, unjustly detained, or killed every year worldwide. To support press and hostage freedom, please visit www.viperclubmovie.com to learn more.” – Roadside Attractions
FINAL ANALYSIS: An eye opener and interesting topic. (3 out of 5 Stars)
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Susan Sarandon, Matt Bomer, Lola Kirke, Julian Morris, Sheila Vand, Adepero Oduye, Edie Falco
Directed by: Maryam Keshavarz
Written by: Maryam Keshavarz, Jonathan Mastro
Genre: Drama
MPAA Rating: R for language and some disturbing images
Running Time: 1 hr. 49 min.
Opening Date: November 2, 2018
Distributed by: Roadside Attractions
Released in: Standard
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
