Most of the scenes are set on a political table, but the film also gives viewers a chance to see Lincoln not just as a president, but as a solemn man, a playful storyteller, powerful commander and a vulnerable father. The movie will make viewers read history books and re-visit the past. It is as compelling as most of the Biography Movies shown in Manila telling stories of heroes and history.
Academy-Award winner Daniel Day-Lewis which resembles the 16th President gives justice to the role as his stance, height and stature give imagination to the viewers as how Abraham Lincoln speaks and walks (especially as if he carries the world on his back) when he was alive.
Lincoln may be classified as a Biography Movie, but it also has its comedy moments through the witty lines, and comic trio of James Spader, Tim Blake Nelson and John Hawkes. A moment of suspense is also present during the voting at the House floor – that at one point it reminded me of the Supreme Court Impeachment Trial.
It may lack the usual action and adventure ( Spelberg’s signature film ingredients), but the movie counts on its actors’ portrayal of each role, which shows Spelberg’s expertise in directing and film-making. I was moved by Tommy Lee Jones (who plays Thaddeus Stevens).
Lincoln (the movie) is not the usual Biography Movie. The two-hour movie will show viewers how a man fight his greatest battle and influence to change lives and make history.
Lincoln (the movie) opens in Manila today, February 20, 2013
from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.
Lincoln (the Movie), A Look at Abraham Lincoln’s Final Four Months