Adam McKay's fascinating biopic Vice about the controversial politician Dick Cheney was one of my great cinematic discoveries of the year.
With its dynamic direction and corrosive humour, the script manages to infiltrate the psyche of one of the most enigmatic and influential figures of recent times.
And to play him, they cast a Christian Bale who fully immerses himself in the role with a chilling physical transformation.
Amy Adams and Sam Rockwell as his wives Lynne and George also deserve to stand out, and the supporting cast of historical figures adds layers to this analysis of the abuse of power.
Beyond the gripping biographical study, Vice acidly deconstructs the recent geopolitical fabric, each historical ellipsis is riddled with real data that generates deep reflection.
With his trademark non-linear editing, director McKay once again demonstrates his gift for making the invisible visible.
