THE BRINK OF WAR

Yes, especially if you're a history buff, as this movie gives an informative, detailed account of Reagan and Gorbachev’s 1986 Iceland summit, a significant moment in history. The movie gives viewers a look at what some of these tense conversations and negotiations might have looked like. Lead actors Jeff Daniels, Jared Harris, and J.K. Simmons deliver excellent performances, imbuing the real people they portray with humanity.

However, as the events of the movie largely take place in a room, characters sit and talk around a table, causing the action to drag. The same conversation feels repetitive, and the movie operates under the assumption that viewers already understand the real-life events, making it hard to follow for those unfamiliar with Reagan and Gorbachev’s summit. A B-plot follows an American and British journalist, which ultimately goes nowhere, rendering their scenes redundant. Leave the kids at home for this one.

This movie details former President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev’s 1986 Iceland summit. The global leaders set out to discuss a number of topics they disagree on, from nuclear arms to human rights.

Both Reagan and Gorbachev pursue their own personal agendas and clash over their differing opinions, but they reach an agreement on the elimination of nuclear weapons. Can the two leaders and their teams agree to the same set of terms, or will negotiations fall apart?

Three stars means solid, honest craftsmanship with a heavy middle along the way.  It features an excellent cast and presents an informative plot that enhances the viewer's understanding of this landmark historical event. However, the movie unfolds in one room, with most scenes centered on conversations and lacking action, which makes the 2-hour runtime feel lengthy. Additionally, many scenes present detailed discussions of policies and programs without fully explaining them, which can confuse viewers who lack prior knowledge of the subject.

However, while history buffs will be delighted, casual viewers might struggle to follow along with the conversations and lack of action, which can make the movie’s 2-hour run time drag. Additionally, many of the scenes include detailed discussions of policies and programs that are not fully explained in the movie itself. If you aren’t already knowledgeable about the subject, the movie can be hard to follow.

This movie presents a mixed worldview. Reagan and his team work for the good of America, democracy, and Capitalism, taking their mission seriously. Several scenes include comments praising the freedoms Americans enjoy, highlighting Reagan’s desire to share that freedom with any Soviet citizens who wish to leave the country.

The movie features some anti-Capitalist comments from the Soviet characters and includes anti-religion remarks, such as Gorbachev declaring Jesus “the first Socialist.” One scene references former First Lady Nancy Reagan’s belief in astrology. The film also contains mild foul language and features a character grappling with the effects of alcohol abuse, although it does not depict alcohol use.

This movie appeals to teens and adults, especially those interested in history and this specific time period. Young viewers should exercise discernment, particularly regarding the Soviets’ comments about religion, Capitalism, and Socialism.

This is an informative and detailed glimpse into some of the conversations that took place during Reagan and Gorbachev’s 1986 nuclear arms summit. However, its commitment to historical accuracy and detail may confuse a viewer unfamiliar with the topic. The film includes some light foul language, as well as anti-Capitalist and anti-faith comments from Communist characters. So here's our answer, the same one we opened with: history lovers, teenagers, and discerning adults will enjoy the watch, but leave the little ones at home.