Most of us probably can’t name all 43 presidents, but if asked to name a few in history, we would certainly include Abraham Lincoln. As a child I knew he was one of the only presidents who had been assassinated. Unfortunately, that is often why he is remembered. The movie LINCOLN, a wonderful historical drama by Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy, and nominated for 12 categories, is an enjoyable way to learn the story behind it all.
Daniel Day Lewis, now the only person to win Best Actor 3 times, was so effective as Lincoln, it was hard to remember that he was just an actor playing the part. My favorite aspect of the film was his portrayal of a man who loved to reflect on life and present stories that might help others in the present situation. Not everyone around him wanted to hear those stories, but that never stopped him if he knew it was applicable.
He also seemed so authentic in the relationships with his peers and his family – Sally Field did a spectacular job as his First Lady. He was confronted daily with trying to please all those around him while at the same time doing what was right for his country. He was the perfect choice to play a man whose intentions, especially concerning human rights, have not stopped creating an effect.
I think my other favorite character in the movie was Tommy Lee Jones as the Republican Congressional leader Thaddeus Stevens. Stevens was an emphatic supporter of the Thirteenth Amendment and was instrumental in the abolition of slavery. He and Lincoln fought so hard to disregard the argument that it would be unfair to blacks to all of a sudden be free, which to me seemed liked such a weird justification to not pass the amendment.
What I love about a historical drama done so well is the door it opens up to learning more. I get introduced to people and issues that I knew very little about before. I find myself wanting to know more, and that certainly serves as the best impetus for understanding the history of our country!
Have you seen the movie yet? What did you think? You can get it on Amazon too!
(I was provided a copy of the BluRay/DVD Combo pack for review, but as always — the opinions are expressed are entirely my own!)
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