I just got back from watching Atlas Shrugged:  Part I at the Valley Art Theater in Tempe.

WOW!

...not just because Taylor Shilling was so HOT as Dagny Taggert either.

First of all, the line for the 1:30pm show went around the building.  This is the only time I have seen long lines at the Valley Art Theater so maybe the film and subject matter are compelling for some reason.

As for the movie, I really liked it.  The characters were all distinctive and were developed throughout the film.  The dialog was smart and sharp too, especially if you are sympathetic to what was being said.  There was tension and drama too, although not enough to distract from the overall story.  I LOVED the cinematography for the Colorado scenes too, it captures the essence of the vast and beautiful American West.

Mostly though, I enjoyed how the movie showcased the utter depravity of the corporate, scientific, labor, and political leaders in the film.  The overt class warfare, resentment, envy, and craven nature of mankind was on display too.  It showed how these corrupt men and institutions, which leads to a corrosion of society leading to (impending) breakdown.  Very timely themes indeed given the current state of affairs.

Oh, and the good guys and gals are hard-working, smart, competent, independent, and driven.

There were a few continuity errors that I found but nothing major.  I did find the section of running a train at high-speed through winding canyons a bit of a stretch but hey, its Hollywood.  And Taylor Shilling, although smokin' hot, is a bit young for the role of Dagny Taggert methinks.  A young, foxy actress playing a leading role in a movie is a feature though and not a bug.

I would say to anybody reading this post, go see this movie!  It is important because it touches upon timely themes of industriousness, inventiveness, competence, fair competition, individuality, and freedom along with their contrasting demerits.  This movie is actually worth paying for and seeing in a theater so go do it while you can.

You might find yourself clapping and cheering at the end too...