THE EAST

BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELL
JUNE 3, 2013

Not only is “The East” an entertaining thriller starring Brit Marling as an undercover operative for an intelligence firm, but it also hits some very valid points on social injustice and the state of our environment. Written and directed by Zal Batmanglij, co-writing with lead actress Brit, the pair prove that “Sound of My Voice” was not a fluke and capture the same high-end independent feel.

Surrounded by impressive talent, Brit Marling shines in her creation with sincerity and believability. Ellen Page, Alexander Skarsgård, Toby Kebbell, and Patricia Clarkson round out this fantastic cast, all bringing an unmatched life to their characters that keep this film rolling. With an eerie cult-like mentality reminiscent of “Sound of My Voice” and a solid social impact demeanor, “The East” is about as strong a film as it could be. It delivers one of the most entertaining films of the summer in a sea of big-budget, eye-candy blockbusters.