THE CONTENDER

2000

This will be the movie to beat when Oscar time rolls around. While I'm at it, let me predict that Joan Allen and Gary Oldman will also be nominated for their performances. Beautifully written and directed by Rod Lurie, and brilliantly acted by an extraordinary ensemble of fine actors (Jeff Bridges, Joan Allen, Gary Oldman, Sam Elliot, William Peterson, Christian Slater, Mariel Hemingway) this film deals with the confirmation hearings to select a new Vice-President. The President (Jeff Bridges) has chosen Senator Laine Hanson(Joan Allen) as his candidate for the vice-presidency. She accepts, and then the dirt and slander machine begins to roll, driven by the Chairman of the Hearings Committee, Gary Oldman, in one of his most villainous roles. Wait until you see what Oldman looks like; he's transformed himself into some bird-like creature, that's just perfect for the character he's portraying. Even if you hate politics, this film is an entertaining way to say to yourself, "I told you so."

5 Stars

NJB

Let me first say that in terms of performances, not much has come close to this caliber so far in 2000: Jeff Bridges, Joan Allen, Sam Elliot, and Gary Oldman are all excellent. When the vice president of the United States dies, the President (Bridges) announces he is appointing a female senator (Allen) and the congressional committee set to confirm her (lead by Oldman) begins a McCarthy-like investigation into her private life. The whole question of a political figure's privacy rights come into question and a lot of references to the many Clinton scandals are used to make points. It gives you a lot to think about. I really enjoyed this film until the end when it just began to get a little too preachy. If you enjoy political thrillers, however, this one is top notch. See it for Bridges and Oldman alone.

4.5 Stars

CDF