Another movie that did not make the cut in Mike Canning’s book Hollywood on the Potomac is another movie focusing on the CIA, with scenes filmed all around the world, but based in Washington DC. Featuring a stellar cast and beautiful period set pieces, it traces the history of the Agency from its earliest beginnings. Once again, a brief shot of a Capitol Hill icon makes it worth writing about.
Robert De Niro is usually known as an actor, and has such been in the business for almost a half century. He has, however, on two occasions, stepped behind the camera. His first outing as a director came in 1993, with A Bronx Tale. Shortly thereafter, he became intrigued by the early days of the CIA, and wanted to make a film telling the story of the agency’s development. It took ten years to bring to fruition, but on December 22, 2006, the Good Shepherd opened in movie theaters all across the country.
The movie – a longish 167 minutes – told the story of Edward Wilson, played by Matt Damon, as he relives his past and tries to find a mole within the CIA after the disastrous Bay of Pigs invasion. The fact that Wilson’s character is partly based on James Jesus Angleton makes for a wild ride, as Wilson becomes more and more determined to find moles within the CIA.
The rest of the cast was equally stellar: Robert De Niro, William Hurt, Angelina Jolie, Billy Crudup, Alec Baldwin, Timothy Hutton, and Michael Gambon all have roles. Even Keir Dullea, of 2001 fame, makes an appearance.
Capitol Hill comes into play when Wilson goes to a laundry there to pick up a box of what appears to be laundry – but actually contains secrets. The part of the laundry is played by Capitol Hill Valet, a long-time local institution. The scene itself is quite brief, but the old-fashioned sign of the store features prominently in the shot, giving the scene the appropriate 60’s vintage feel.
Capitol Hill Valet as it appears today. And seven years ago. And 50 years ago (RSP)
Once again, Canning had a personal connection to the shooting, watching the work done there and witnessing a meeting between De Niro, Damon, a few other crew members and a US Senator who lives on the block.
The movie opened to mixed reviews, and did decent, but not great, business. It did manage one Oscar nomination, and won a few other awards. A few months ago, a possible sequel (as yet un-named) was announced, though thus far only De Niro’s name is attached to the project.