: A major theme of the film and book is the failure of the U.S. to "finish" the job. While the operation successfully drove out the Soviets, the U.S. neglected to provide funding for schools and infrastructure afterward.
: For a deeper dive into the technicalities of the covert ops, George Crile’s original book remains the most comprehensive source. Scene Structure With Aaron And Gust - The Story Department subtitle Charlie Wilson's War
: Charlie Wilson, a "good-time" congressman from Texas known for his hard-partying lifestyle, leveraged his seat on the House Appropriations Committee to drastically increase funding for the operation. : A major theme of the film and book is the failure of the U