“The Men Who Stare at Goats” is an absurd account of one skeptical reporter’s (Ewan McGregor) discovery of a failed experiment sponsored by the US military.

This experiment involved creating an elite unit of “super soldiers” that would use mind powers to manipulate and combat enemies.

Wilton, the journalist, travels to Iraq to pursue wartime journalistic opportunities and winds up meeting one of the top “super soldiers,” Lynn Cassidy (George Clooney). Together, the two try making their way across the border to Iraq on a mission that Cassidy believes will atone for his failure as a “super soldier.”

There are moments of  hilarity, like seeing Jeff Bridges, George Clooney, and various other military clad actors dance to “Dancing With Myself”. There are also moments of intensity, like witnessing innocent citizens in the streets of Iraq get caught in a conflict started by the Americans.

The constant flashbacks into Cassidy’s memory, while crucial to understanding the plot, do little to propel the film forward.

As I watched the movie, there were many times when I had no idea where the plot was heading. It was difficult to see how the flashbacks would be able to carry the film towards a real conclusion.

However, the cast is made up of strong characters. Jeff Bridges is entertaining as the Vietnam vet/hippie who created the “New Earth Army,” only to be foiled by his scorned protégé, a reliably fantastic Kevin Spacey.

But even these delectable performances, the movie seemed drowned out by a stretched plot and a lack of strong direction.

“The Men Who Stare at Goats” is an ambitious film that attempts to reach comedic heights with its excellent performances and intriguing storyline.

Unfortunately, the movie falls abruptly short of its lofty goals due to the strained plot material and convoluted movie structure.

Maggie Yankovich can be reached for comment at [email protected]