'State of Play ' Review

Russell Crowe and Rachel McAdams in State of Play, directed by Kevin Macdonald. Watch the trailer: http://www.moviefone.com/movie/state-of-play/27010/main

State of Play is doing well at the box office. The reviews were favorable but some critics complained that the third act needed more work. Audiences have overlooked this point and accepted this handsome production loaded with good performances. The film is based on a British TV series which I haven't seen so no comparison is offered or needed as one must judge a work on its own merit.
Russell Crowe plays a slovenly reporter covering two murders. He eventually learns they are related to the mysterious death of an aide who we learn is having an affair with Congressman Ben Affleck, a former college buddy. To complicate matters, Crowe had an affair with Ben's wife played by Robin Wright Penn and he still cares for her. In researching his story, Crowe clashes with new reporter Rachel McAdams on methods and with his Editor Helen Mirren on deadlines and first scoops. These three actresses handle their parts well.
As the plot unravels, we are pulled into a political conspiracy worth billions and ultimate power to the bad guys if they succeed in covering up their schemes There's enough suspense and in-fighting at the newspaper to keep you interested as well as the friendship vs. the scoop issue. Is the third act a let down? I didn't think so as their were a few plot twists that might test your credibility. If you like films about reporters uncovering conspiracies, this one's for you.