Films like The Interpreter aren't made too often. It's an intelligent narrative meant for intelligent audiences. Now please don't get all offended on me. I'm not saying that American audiences are dumb. On the contrary, considering that I screened this movie with a packed theater, I'm convinced that film-goers are craving more movies like this. With a story that could very well be pulled out of today's headlines, The Interpreter is a film about just that- a woman who works for the United Nations as a link between the language barriers of the world. By mistake, Sylvia Broome (Kidman) overhears a plot to assassinate an African leader planning to make a speech before the Council. From there on out, it's up to Secret Service agent Tobin Keller (Penn) to both figure out if Broome herself has anything to hide and then protect her from those who would not want her secrets revealed. Not exactly a "date night" kind of movie, eh? Thank goodness for that.

And thank goodness that Penn and Kidman are two actors more interested in compelling storylines rather than gossip headlines. While there is an overabundance of celebrities who make their way through Hollywood looking for their next photo opportunity, here are two artists who just truly want to make original, interesting films. Sadly, I think that if it weren't for their well-known names, this movie may not have ever been produced.

That's not to say that The Interpreter doesn't have a few flaws. For one, the ending gets tied up a little too neatly (read - unrealistically) for my taste. I don't think that after putting a gun to the head of a world leader, someone can then just walk away clean and free. But maybe that's just me. I never tried it. Also, it becomes a little too obvious too early on that one of the good guys just maybe isn't so good after all. Hence, what is being touted as a thriller really isn't so much of one.

Yet what The Interpreter lacks in a sometimes uneven storyline it more than makes up for with extraordinary performances from Kidman, Penn and Catherine Keener. I would be surprised with anything less from these superb actors. Moreover, although they are woven into a fictional narrative, the film addresses issues that plague many nations today. While we in the United States may have had a small taste of experiencing political unrest in the last several years, let us not overlook countries that force the obedience of their citizens with machine guns, terrorism and mass genocide. More importantly, this film not only explores the problems that face nations in upheaval but also it presents a glimmer of hope to ending their struggles. Only through dialogue and peaceful compromise can any lasting concord be made.

So... if you're looking for a stimulating story, go see The Interpreter. If you're looking for riveting acting, go see The Interpreter. If you're looking for intelligence from a film, go see The Interpreter. Just go see it, okay?

Anna Keizer is a film critic living in Southern California.

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This DVD is available for purchase at ArtsMagicDVD.com.