“State of Play” is absolutely compelling. It is intense from the opening shot to when the credits roll. The force is a result of some clever twists, the large scale of the subject matter and the haunting score by composer Alex Heffes.

“State of Play” has a lot to say, and it says it all with few plot holes and only a few implausible moments; a monumental task for a political espionage thriller, which tend to be extremely far-fetched and largely unfulfilling. The film touches on many important topics; the strength of friendship, ethical boundaries for reporters, monopolization and privatization of the Department of Homeland Security and political sex scandals.

The movie has a heck of a cast, including Crowe, Ben Affleck, Rachel McAdams, Robin Wright Penn, Jason Bateman, Helen Mirren and Jeff Daniels. Affleck’s acting isn’t vomit-inducing this time around – it’s his best performance since “Dogma” 10 years ago. Crowe is as cool as ever, unethical at times, but still super slick. Bateman remains a favorite, playing a sarcastic little weasel that doesn’t get nearly enough screen time for what his character entails.

Director Kevin MacDonald paces the film frenetically for a plot that is dominated by dialogue. Though action sequences are minimal, they are solid and effective. While “State of Play” is not quite an edge-of-your-seat thriller, it sure is a fun ride.

Plot twists unfold as conspiracies unravel. A few developments are somewhat predictable, others are well set up and hard to spot. The film’s spider-web of conspiracies reaches far and wide, from a 10-year-old purse thief to the CEO of Point Corp, a $40 billion company seeking to privatize the Department of Homeland Security.

Magnificent acting, frantic pacing, a marvelous score and a smart storyline – what’s not to like? Check out this movie.

Grade: A