Lincoln

"No one has ever lived who knows better than you the proper placement of footfalls on treacherous paths."

America, in 1865, was divided by prejudice and torn apart by war.  Lincoln delves into the political and personal implications of the President's attempt to pass the 13th Amendment, the abolishment of slavery, amidst a landscape of death and division.

The cast deliver exceptionally strong performances.  The Academy Award bestowed on Daniel Day-Lewis for this role is undoubtedly greatly deserved, as he flawlessly portrays Abraham Lincoln as both a politician and a man.  The film's production, furthermore, is perfection.  The brooding cinematography captures the dark context, while the incredible production design authentically brings to life a country in the throes of civil war.

Although it is a story that many will know the obvious end to; the narrative managed at times to maintain a sense of uncertainty and suspense that was engaging.  Unfortunately, however, this was ultimately defeated by the slow pacing and great length of the film.  The plot is dulled by the repetitive and monotonous political discussions: pierced only by the lovely, unexpected appearances of Lee Pace and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, whose choices cast conflict onto the protagonists.

While the production and performances were absolutely outstanding, the plot became long, winding and ultimately tedious; as the film eventually drew to its inevitable and thus predictable conclusion.