“Lincoln”, perhaps an Oscar-worthy film, was even better than the movie was hyped up to be. Directed by Steven Spielberg (who else?), this drama revolves around President Abraham Lincoln as he and his staff works diligently to pass the 13th amendment, outlawing slavery.
Starring Daniel Day Lewis, as Lincoln, Lewis did a magnificent job of playing the role of America’s 16th president. He was able to capture all the elements of Lincoln’s personality: his natural leadership, his loving nature, and his cunning ability to soften any dim mood with a funny joke. More importantly, Lewis was able to embody the spirit of Lincoln in his stunning performance.
Supporting actors Sally Field (Mary Todd Lincoln), David Strathairn (Secretary of State William Steward), and Tommy Lee Jones (Representative Thaddeus Stevens) played instrumental roles in the film’s conflict over Lincoln’s decision to whether or not try to pass the 13th amendment during a lame duck session of congress. Faced with insurmountable opposition, they all questioned Lincoln’s decision to try to pass the amendment before the Civil War ended, but all ended up offering their support.
Lincoln isn’t a civil war movie such as Gettysburg or the unforgettable Glory, but a drama that focuses on how a man is able to lead a nation despite a divided nation and trying to pass a controversial bill, all while dealing with family problems. The film main’s plot focuses on Lincoln and his cabinet trying to persuade Northern Democrats to vote in support of the 13th amendment. Abraham Lincoln also has to deal with a conflict between him and his wife as Lincoln fulfills the role as president, but not as husband. Lincoln’s oldest son wants to join the war effort for the Union and Mary Todd Lincoln is staunchly against the idea, fearing for his safety.
Lincoln is a must-see film over the holiday season and is arguably a nominee for Best Picture. And unlike the other Abraham Lincoln film that came out earlier this year, this president isn’t killing vampires with an ax. Steven Spielberg didn’t fail to impress in another one of his magnificent films. This film will surely change your perspective of Abraham Lincoln and the challenges he faced even in the waning months of the Civil War.