The Peacemaker is DreamWorks’ first feature film and it was made to set the record straight on modern day thrillers. Instead of just a cute script, you will find that this movie is actually expertly planned and paced, and concentrates on the action rather than on special effects. Although not original, it’s really solid. Penned by Michael Schiffer, who has already proven himself once with the energetic thriller Crimson Tide, The Peacemaker is second only to its predecessor. The plot is all about the White House Nuclear Smuggling Group tracking down 10 coveted nuclear bombs following a curious train wreck in Russia. Nicole Kidman plays the acting head of the department and she and her military field officer (played by George Clooney) travel to Europe in search for the bombs. Playing a Bosnian insurgent who works with passion and secrecy is newcomer Marcul Iures, a Romanian actor. Although being called as a “popcorn movie” by critics, The Peacemaker utilizes the ripe emotional depth of the Bosnian War to create tension; which is probably the film’s greatest booster for the dominant charm of George Clooney as a smart advisor who will continue his vengeance without a second thought. Surprisingly enough, Nicole Kidman’s performance matches that of Clooney’s by showing flexibility in separating her serious from her fun fare roles.
–Doug Thomas