Although ostensibly this is a movie involving hostages, ultimately you probably won't really care that much about their fate because they are never fully or even partially developed as real people who gain our empathy. Meanwhile the Iranians are characterized as evil Muslims for us to root against(how imaginative). No significant or serious political issues are fully explored although the top notch cast is compelling and there is some good dialog. This is a film that wants to be taken seriously yet lacks gravitas especially considering it is a work of historical fiction as admitted by its creators. Essentially just another prosaic "political" thriller that turns into a melodrama although admittedly with some suspense toward the finale. Shocking ending (no spoiler) includes Acadamy Award for best picture.