Gorrión rojo

I don't usually watch R-rated films -- I'm no fan of gore or excessive violence, and I don't go to the cinema to watch sex -- but I made an exception for this, because I usually try to see Jennifer Lawrence's movies.

I do not at all understand this film's low ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and generally critical reception. It's another sterling performance, and it's a spy thriller that I for one definitely did not figure out as it went along. (In fact, I'm glad I was recently able to rewatch it through Fandango, because having seen the final twist, I wanted to go back over the film to see the events again, knowing the final story in advance).

JLaw is utterly convincing as an innocent swept into a cruel profession she would never have chosen. Her character undergoes a transformation before our eyes. Lawrence successfully conveys her character's initial terror and near-helplessness changing into competency and iron resolution.

The violence can be brutal (if you're not into that kind of thing). The sex and nudity is really minimal, although it is there.

I'm really glad I saw this film twice. I'd see it again. I recommend it.