Charlie Wilson's War
Now this was an interesting story
First off, it's based on the true story of Congressman Charles Wilson, from Texas. Apparently he's a very charismatic and influential individual, with many friends in powerful positions. Despite his lavish and risky lifestyle, he's one of the only honest and honorable politicians I've ever heard of.
During the Cold War, Charlie Wilson single handedly raised the Military Weapons Fund from $5 million to over a billion. Because of him, the people of Afghanistan (not the taliban, for those who aren't familiar with the events) were able to procure the weapons necessary to strike a crippling blow against the Soviet Communists, thus keeping them from attacking Afghanistan any further.
During that time, the Soviets were flying their Kasatkas out to Afghanistan to shoot people just for fun. Adults and Children alike lost life and limb to all manner of weapons, from deadly explosive landmines, to tanks and especially helicopters. However, once Charlie Wilson made it possible for them to afford high grade weapons such as the RPG-7, the Soviets ran from Afghanistan with their tails between their legs. Charlie Wilson was a hero to these people.
I suppose that what made this movie great were the aforementioned events and how they were emulated cinematically. What charmed me though was not only the portrayal of Charlie Wilson by Tom Hanks, but Phillip Seymour Hoffman's character: Gust Avrakotos. He was a very dry and cynical Jack Nicholson-esque character, yet the usually flambouyant Hoffman played him very well.
A masterpiece for anybody who like movies and politics alike.