Lincoln

I'm afraid this review won't be as comprehensive as some due to Lincoln's political content - much of which went over this particular reviewers head!
Despite my interest in politically driven features, the historical element of Lincoln highlighted my ignorance of the time in which it's set.

The plot is reasonably easy to follow and one imagines Lincoln will reward with multiple viewings.
As the American Civil War rages on, the film follows Lincoln's attempts to bring about the 13th Amendment - effectively banning slavery. Set during his second term as President, the film follows Lincoln's hurried efforts to get the bill passed by the House of Representatives.

Lincoln plays Daniel Day-Lewis in a role that earned him the best actor Oscar this year - and deservedly so! Day-Lewis inhabits the role chameleon-like - just as he's done many times before. There wouldn't be a film without him - the man's a genius!

Spielberg does an amicable job of directing, but for a visual story-teller who's set-ups and compositions are so masterful, this dialogue-heavy project seems an odd fit for the man.
There are moments which are undeniably his of course; the ongoing issue with Lincoln's gloves - and the wheel-barrow scene (as Lincoln's son stumbles upon the truth of war).

The supporting cast are good also. Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones are both strong. While James Spader, John Hawkes and Tim Blake Nelson (as Lincoln's street smart/politically savvy operatives) bring a lightness of touch to proceedings, distracting us from the furrowed brows of Office.

The film is rich with detail and the historical accuracy is evident. The film does feel small and somewhat restrained however. Perhaps the claustrophobic environs of Office are meant to communicate Lincoln's own feelings of isolation and frustration? With the 13th Amendment being of National concern, the obvious choice would've been to show the scale to which this new legislation would've affected the country.

Interestingly and somewhat poignantly I found myself watching Lincoln while current President, Barack Obama was looking to make revisions concerning gun control in the U.S. Fundamentally Lincoln recognised the Constitution of old needed amending today - a commendable action from an inspiring man.
Close to 150 years have passed since this film is set. One would hope we've evolved to a clearer and more united vision of our future?!

3/5


Poster image courtesy: www.empireonline.com