Wordplay

Reviewed by:
Pete Hammond

Clue: An 11-letter word for the documentary on crossword puzzle writer Will Shortz. Answer: Sensational. This enormously fun and insightful film details the cracked world of crosswords and gets everything right—there aren't enough words in the English language to describe the wit and wonder of this hilarious exploration into the land of puzzle enthusiasts. Although focusing mainly on Shortz, puzzle master for The New York Times, Wordplay reveals the esoteric world of people whose lives are defined by their dedication to these mind-bending games, following devotees through an annual tournament. In the end, this documentary on what appears to be a deathly boring topic becomes one of the most surprising and entertaining movies of the year. Clue: A three-letter word for when you should see Wordplay. Answer: Now.