Argo Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

CIA uses Hollywood magic (and a terrible sci-fi movie) to distract some Iranians so six Americans can sneak out of Canada’s house.

🍿 Argo: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Iran Hostage Crisis Begins

In 1979, the Iranian Revolution is in full swing. Anti-American sentiment is high due to the U.S. harboring the deposed Shah. Iranian militants storm the U.S. embassy in Tehran, taking 52 Americans hostage. However, six Americans manage to escape and find refuge in the home of the Canadian Ambassador, Ken Taylor.

Tony Mendez’s Audacious Plan

CIA exfiltration specialist Tony Mendez is tasked with rescuing the six Americans. After considering various options, Mendez proposes an improbable plan: to create a fake Canadian film crew scouting locations in Iran for a science fiction movie titled ‘Argo.’ He aims to smuggle the Americans out disguised as members of the crew.

Hollywood Assistance

Mendez enlists the help of Hollywood makeup artist John Chambers and producer Lester Siegel to lend credibility to the fake film project. They establish a phony production company, publicize the film, and create promotional materials to make ‘Argo’ appear legitimate. This involves creating a script, concept art, and holding a press conference.

Infiltration and Preparation

Mendez travels to Tehran under the guise of a producer for ‘Argo.’ He meets with the six Americans, provides them with fake Canadian passports and identities, and coaches them on their cover stories. The group faces numerous challenges, including the constant threat of discovery and the psychological toll of living under constant fear.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Tony Mendez (Ben Affleck): A skilled CIA exfiltration specialist tasked with rescuing six American diplomats from Iran.
• Jack O’Donnell (Bryan Cranston): Mendez’s supportive CIA supervisor who navigates bureaucratic obstacles to aid the mission.
• John Chambers (John Goodman): A talented Hollywood makeup artist who uses his skills to create disguises for the CIA.
• Lester Siegel (Alan Arkin): A seasoned Hollywood producer who lends his expertise to create a believable cover story.
• Ken Taylor (Victor Garber): The Canadian Ambassador who provides refuge for the six American diplomats in his home.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Tony Mendez: “We just need to come up with a cover story that’s credible, that’s bulletproof.” – Mendez explaining the need for a solid plan to extract the Americans.
• Lester Siegel: “This is the best bad idea we have, by far.” – Lester acknowledges the inherent risks of Mendez’s plan while admitting it’s the best option.
• Lester Siegel: “If I’m doing a fake movie, it’s gonna be a hit.” – Lester’s confidence in creating a believable Hollywood production is displayed with assurance.
• Tony Mendez: “Argo f*** yourself.” – A line used by Mendez and the Americans as a code phrase and as a way to deal with the stress of the situation.
• John Chambers: “You’re a movie producer now.” – Said to Mendez as he embarks on the mission, highlighting the absurdity and danger of the operation.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $44.5M
• Domestic Gross: $136.0M
• Worldwide Gross: $232.3M

💥 Argo Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely riveted by Argo! The tension was palpable, especially during the airport scene. Knowing it was based on a true story made it even more intense. The humor injected by Goodman and Arkin provided a great balance to the heavy subject matter. I walked out feeling proud and satisfied. The whole movie had me on the edge of my seat. Affleck’s performance, while understated, was perfect for the role.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in spy thrillers”
  • “Those who appreciate well-crafted suspense films”
  • “Audiences who enjoy movies based on true stories”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Language”
  • “Intense scenes of political unrest”
  • “Brief depictions of violence”

Professional Reviews

• Rolling Stone: “Affleck directs with skill and passion, building suspense masterfully. Argo is more than just a thriller; it’s a smart, sophisticated look at a historical event, filled with memorable characters and crackling dialogue.
• The New York Times: “A gripping thriller, Argo is filled with tension and intrigue. Affleck’s direction is sharp, and the performances are top-notch. The film’s blend of historical fact and Hollywood fiction creates a compelling and entertaining experience.
• RogerEbert.com: “Argo is a well-crafted and engaging film that balances suspense with humor. While some historical liberties are taken, the movie’s thrilling narrative and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch.

Audience Reactions

The airport escape scene was incredibly suspenseful and had everyone holding their breath.: Viewers loved the blend of historical drama with Hollywood satire and thrilling suspense.

Overall Consensus: Argo is a critically acclaimed thriller praised for its suspenseful plot, strong performances, and skillful direction, though some controversy exists over its historical accuracy.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Picture)- 2013
2. Academy Award (Best Adapted Screenplay)- 2013
3. Academy Award (Best Film Editing)- 2013
4. Golden Globe (Best Motion Picture – Drama)- 2013
5. Golden Globe (Best Director)- 2013

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “President Jimmy Carter stated that while the film was a ‘great drama’ and deserved to win an Oscar, it gave almost full credit to the American CIA when ‘ninety percent of the contributions to the ideas, and the consummation of the plan was Canadian.'”
• “The postscript at the end credits was changed after the film screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, as it was felt that it slighted Canada’s involvement in the rescue.”

🖥️ How to Watch Argo?

Argo is widely available to rent or purchase on various platforms. You can find it on Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Vudu. Check your local cable provider for on-demand options. Physical copies (DVD and Blu-ray) are also available for purchase on Amazon and at most major retailers.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Argo, you might like these similar films:

• Zero Dark Thirty (2012): Both films are fact-based thrillers centered on covert operations to extract or eliminate high-value targets in politically charged environments.
• Munich (2005): Like Argo, Munich deals with the fallout from political tensions and the morally ambiguous actions taken by intelligence agencies in response.
• All the President’s Men (1976): A classic of the era that, like Argo, deals with political intrigue, government secrets, and the tension of uncovering the truth under pressure.
• Bridge of Spies (2015): Similar in its focus on a tense Cold War exchange and the delicate negotiations involved in securing the release of an American citizen.
• Three Days of the Condor (1975): A cult classic thriller dealing with espionage, government conspiracies, and a protagonist caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

🛒 Argo Related Products

• Argo (Blu-ray): Experience the thrill of the rescue mission in stunning high definition. Includes behind-the-scenes features and commentary from Ben Affleck.
• Argo: How the CIA and Hollywood Pulled Off the Most Audacious Rescue in History: The gripping true story behind the movie. This book provides a detailed account of the CIA’s daring operation and the role of Hollywood in the rescue.
• Argo Movie Poster: High-quality print of the iconic Argo movie poster. A great addition to any movie lover’s collection.
• Argo T-Shirt: Show your support for the movie with a stylish Argo T-shirt. Available in various sizes and colors.

🎧 Soundtrack

Argo features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Little T&A” – performed by AC/DC
• “When the Levee Breaks” – performed by Led Zeppelin

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

“Argo” winning Best Picture

Relive the thrill of ‘Argo’s’ triumph at the Oscars! Watch as the team behind this acclaimed film takes home the most prestigious award in the movie industry.

Why THIS Is The Worst Best Picture Winner In Oscar History

Prepare to challenge your views on the Best Picture winners! This video takes a closer look at ‘Argo’ and questions its worthiness of the award, presenting a compelling argument for an alternative choice.

Police Cars Chase 747 Down Runway – Argo | Hollywood vs Reality

Ever wondered how realistic that heart-pounding chase scene in ‘Argo’ was? This video puts the movie under the microscope, comparing it to actual aviation practices. Get ready for an eye-opening analysis!

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