Michael Clayton looks like it might fit the bill; I haven’t seen it, thanks!

Yeah that’s more or less it. It doesn’t have to be exhilarating necessarily (it can be compelling, or deep). I am not sure how to edit my post but I want to add Moneyball to my examples list; that’s not exhilarating per se, but it’s one of my favourites.

I also like real-life accuracy (or well researched near-accuracy) to go with this. And some academia/ thought process that is shown (so: tough spy guy just being a good tough spy guy isn’t quite enough).

I’m not sure about any action movie fitting the bill (this is partly why I find this ‘category’ hard to define and convey to others). Heist movies are closer.

For me this particular want is not about somebody being a pro fighter or running around with all the action; I’m thinking about movies that show the thought process more: the application of intellect. For example, Moneyball is another of my examples: a sport where somebody applies maths and statistics and gets a result; they applied their own particular knowledge and ability in a novel way.

The writing and direction of such a story also makes a difference I expect; there are lots of movies about people doing great things, but fewer that show you the details, or pull the curtain aside to reveal the Oz, to demonstrate how smart it all is.

Thank you, a few I haven’t seen, going on the list :)

Ooh interesting, I hadn’t considered documentaries in this.

1965?

Is the 2004 remake worth watching also, or not?

I haven’t watched any of these yet, adding to the list and will see if they or the spot, thanks :)

Thanks! Adding both of those to my watch list. I am totally down for movies that take place in single locations (Twelve Angry Men, afterall), or show in-depth discussions and analysis rather than those that just gloss over it for the next fast-paced-whatever.

Big Short was great and agree I try ink belongs here.

I’m gonna rewatch MI based on your comment: I only ever felt they were ‘typical action movies’ (not a bad thing, love those too) but haven’t seen them all, and maybe I need to re-evaluate :)