Synopsis

CIA field operative Roger Ferris pursues a terrorist leader across the Middle East while managing conflicting demands from his remote superior and Jordanian intelligence chief Hani Salaam. As Ferris builds an elaborate deception to penetrate the terrorist network, the operation tests his loyalties, judgment, and willingness to manipulate allies and enemies alike.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film is based on David Ignatius' 2007 novel of the same name. Ignatius' background as a journalist specializing in Middle Eastern affairs informed the story's focus on intelligence work, political distrust, and competing cultural perspectives.

• Although much of the story takes place in Jordan and other Middle Eastern locations, production was filmed primarily in the United States and Morocco. Dubai authorities reportedly refused permission because of the screenplay's politically sensitive subject matter.

• The shoot lasted approximately 65 days, from September through December 2007. Morocco doubled for several countries, with locations in Casablanca, Rabat, and Ouarzazate serving different parts of the story.

• Washington, D.C.'s Eastern Market hosted the beginning of principal photography. Part of Capitol Hill was also redressed to resemble Amsterdam for a brief car-bomb sequence.

• The production used the National Geographic offices in Gaithersburg, Maryland, as the setting for the CIA headquarters. The building's architecture and wooded surroundings made it a practical substitute for the Langley facility.

• A basketball stadium in Rabat was transformed into a U.S. embassy compound in Jordan. Its layout allowed the filmmakers to capture both the interior offices and activity outside in the same visual space.

• Despite its large international setting and substantial production budget, the film had a relatively modest theatrical run in North America. Its worldwide gross was approximately $115 million.