Charlie Wilson's War (HBO)

About Charlie Wilson's War (HBO)

Charlie Wilson's War is an American biographical political drama city released in 2007. The movie is based on the story of U.S. Congressman Charlie Wilson and CIA operative Gust Avrakotos, who supported the Afghan mujahideen during the Afghan War. Their efforts contributed to Russia's retreat from the region.

Making / Production

The movie was directed by Mike Nichols and written by Aaron Sorkin. The production team included Gary Goetzman as the producer and Tom Hanks, Amy Pascal, and Andrew Lazar as the co-producers. The movie took several months to shoot in locations like Morocco, Egypt, and the USA.

Actors

• Tom Hanks as Rep. Charlie Wilson: Hanks portrayed the Texas Congressman, showcasing his charm, wit, and debonair lifestyle that often hid his progressive political strategies.
• Julia Roberts as Joanne Herring: Roberts delivered a stellar performance as the wealthy socialite who convinces Wilson to support the mujahideen.
• Philip Seymour Hoffman as Gust Avrakotos: Hoffman played the role of the CIA agent with an edgy finesse, igniting the screen with his presence.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The real Charlie Wilson appeared as an extra in a scene set at the Crystal Ball, a famous charity fundraiser.
• The film was the last directed by Mike Nichols before his death in 2014.
• Julia Roberts and Tom Hanks, both Oscar winners, acted together for the first time on this film.

Awards

Philip Seymour Hoffman garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Charlie Wilson's War.

Quotes

• "These things happened. They were glorious and they changed the world... and then we fucked up the end game." - Charlie Wilson
• "The people will drink the sand because they don't know the difference." - Gust Avrakotos

Music, Soundtrack

• "Brothers in Arms" by Dire Straits
• "Cocaine Blues" by Joaquin Phoenix
• "Angel of the Morning" by Juice Newton