Air

This very small, very personal, scaled-back story reminded me of the old, straight-to-video HBO biopics. It’s not hugely ambitious, and the conflict is somewhat benign. But it’s a fascinating true story and all of the low-key filmmaking is truly expert. It’s Matt Damon’s movie and he nails the middle-aged schlub perfectly. It’s hard to imagine him beating anyone’s ass in the “Bournes” as he shoves down snack foods and argues on the phone. But he takes full ownership of this passionate American square, and he might get an Oscar nomination for its easy authenticity.