In the Valley of Elah is a gripping drama

In the Valley of Elah

Director: Paul Haggis

Cast: Tommy Lee Jones, Jason Patric, Charlize Theron, Susan Sarandon

Two knock-out performances from Jones and Sarandon – playing the parents of a son who has disappeared after returning from Iraq – and fine directing from Haggis - who covers the story without any messages or preaching – makes this a gripping and thoughtful drama.

The parents are joined in their search by Theron, as a somewhat miscast police officer, as the mystery deepens.

Jones, as always, brings his tough, gloomy talents to what is a film whose strength lies in the straight telling of a good, old-fashioned story.

Star Rating: 4/5