'Lincoln' - Masterfully acted and directed; a powerful film!
In 'Lincoln' Daniel Day-Lewis delivers an Oscar worthy performance practically channeling the dignity and poise of Abraham Lincoln in the final months of his life as he tries to push the 13 Amendment through a sharply divided House (some things never change). Steven Spielberg once again proves that he is truly a director for the ages, delivering a film that entertains as much as it informs; never preaching as much as illustrating the dilemmas faced by Lincoln and the nation. One need not be a history buff (although it may help in the opening 30 minutes) to enjoy this finely crafted film.
The Civil War is raging as Lincoln is set to begin his second term in office. Convinced that the 13th Amendment to abolish slavery is the key to ending the war, Lincoln pursues the quest for votes like a man possessed. The endless backroom politicking is very reminiscent of today's politics, illustrating just how much things have NOT changes in Washington. And what could have been a very boring history lesson is bought to entertaining life by the very talent of Day-Lewis as well as the rest of the cast. Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln gives an inspired, masterful performance; torn as the wife of the President and that of a mother who's son yearns to fight in the war. We see the woman not as the crazed wreck history has taught us, but rather as a woman torn apart by the grief of losing a child and the potential for losing another. Field gives a performance that is marked by strength and support; an Oscar worthy performance for sure.
Equally strong is the ever great Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens, the representative from Pennsylvania who, while he agreed with Lincoln, wanted to not only abolish slavery, but grant total equal rights; something that was just too much for the white majority to stand. David Strathairn as William Seward, the Secretary of State, was inspired as well. His portrayal, while confident, illustrates the inner workings of politics and the need for deals that others would think unbecoming.
If nothing else, the film illustrates pointedly the burden of leadership and the strength of character that Lincoln had. If only all the politicians in Washington today would sit through a viewing of this and take a lesson from someone who is arguably one of our greatest presidents.
Beautifully shot, the film immerses us into the period wonderfully and with typical Spielberg style we become lost in the story. It's not hard to do when the actors themselves so immerse themselves in their parts. From the lilting tone of Lincoln's voice, to the obvious burden weighing on his face; Day-Lewis IS Lincoln. Possibly the finest film of the year and sure to gather in several Oscars, the 4 star 'Lincoln' is well worth the investment of time.