Lincoln is a 2012 biographical drama about the American Civil War president’s struggles with the continuing carnage on the battlefield as he fights with many inside his own cabinet on the decision to emancipate the slaves.
There are few who would argue over the impact of actor Daniel-Day Lewis‘ tremendous contribution to the art, nearly all of his film celebrated and his performances singled out as some of the best not only of his generation but of all time. With Steven Spielberg‘s 2012 historical tribute to President Abraham Lincoln, Lewis won his third Academy Award as the titular 16th president. The story begins in the months near the end of the bloody war between the states and while Lincoln must deal with rebuilding the nation, what weighs most heavy is his Emancipation Proclamation, an executive order that would essentially free the slaves, and the proposed Thirteenth Amendment making abolishing slavery, fearing neither will be passed. The film centers on his relationship with those on his side and those who oppose, putting much focus on the legal entanglements that would set the course for the very future of the country. An epic in every way, it is led by Lewis’s impassioned and provocative approach, not to mention equally emotional turns from Tommy Lee Jones and David Strathairn. For Lincoln buffs, this is a must, while all others will be easily swept up into one of the most important moments in human history.
THE LAST WORD
This is easily one of Spielberg’s most accomplished films, a genuinely emotional and compelling film that will inspire and move you.
As a piece of entertainment and a gateway to further exploration, it’s unmatched, as certain historians have pointed out liberties in the film that aren’t exactly true.