And watching him with such intensity, at such close range, is not an unmixed pleasure.

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Slowly, though, you realize that unmixed pleasure isn't part of the movie's plan, while aesthetic daring is.

WSJ: Movie Reviews for 'The American,' 'Mesrine': George Clooney Compels, Vincent Cassel Rivets

Being married is not an unmixed blessing when it comes to taxation.

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Even integration, it seems, is not an unmixed blessing.

ECONOMIST: Black Britain