Steven Spielberg has been busy on his Abraham Lincoln project for quite a few years. Initially he had Liam Neeson in mind for the role of the 16th President of the United States of America. But when Neeson claimed to be too old for the part, the role went to Daniel Day-Lewis. After seeing 'Lincoln' it's hard to imagine any other actor portraying this historical figure.
'Lincoln' is an important film. It's not just a history lesson, it's also an impressive dramatical achievement. A movie about the passing of the Thirteenth Amendment could've been boring as a rock. Fortunately, Spielberg and his screenwriter Tony Kushner find real suspense in the final months of Lincoln's life. It's not just the immense importance of abolishing slavery that captures our interest, nor is it the conclusion of the American Civil War, it's the story of a steadfast group of individuals. People who used, and sometimes abused, the political system to do the right thing.
At the center of this group is Abraham Lincoln, who, by now, is regarded as an icon of democracy. In 'Lincoln' we see him with his family and we see him struggle with the death of his second son, Willie. These scenes, accompanied by John Williams' solemn score, are at the heart of the film. It's as if, for the first time, we are able to see past his historical importance, and experience that Abraham Lincoln was very much a man like any other. There's a gentleness to this film that seems to be directly inspired by Lincoln's character.
'Lincoln' will be remembered as one of the finest collections of performances in film history. Daniel Day-Lewis transforms into Abe Lincoln. From the moment he appears on screen his presence dominates the picture. He captures an intellectual, who is no stranger to suffering, nevertheless he has a fine sense of wit, demonstrated by the handful of shaggy dog stories he tells during the film. Sally Field is remarkable as Lincoln's grieving wife Mary Todd. Her confrontation with Tommy Lee Jones is one of the movie's highpoints.
All performances in 'Lincoln' are rock solid. Some of Hollywood's most prominent actors bring their best, and the dialogues, of which there are many, are impressive and suspenseful. But of all supporting actors Tommy Lee Jones stands out as the Radical Republican Thaddeus Stevens, a lifelong abolitionist. Surprisingly, the most heartwarming moment in 'Lincoln' belongs to this tireless grouch.
Spielberg's film will not appeal every viewer. Many scenes consist entirely out of political debates and conversations. The issues are no less important, but if you're not interested in history you won't find much to enjoy in 'Lincoln'. Aside from that, the film runs a bit too long. There's a moment, about ten minutes before the actual ending, which would've been a perfect conclusion. Instead, Spielberg choses to include the night of Lincoln's assassination. It doesn't ruin the film per se, but I do feel it's a missed opportunity to end the film in a most touching manner.
