November's Film Of The Month: The Ides of March
OK, so I know I'm recommending a Ryan Gosling movie for the second month in a row, but I can assure you this is not the result of some secret man crush!
He just happens to be a very talented actor who's chosen his projects wisely and has topped the bill in two of the best films of 2011. As far as this political drama's concerned, Gosling has to share the credit with the supporting cast, most notably George Clooney, who also serves as co-writer and director.
Clooney is maturing as a film-maker. This is the fourth movie he's directed and, while I've enjoyed his previous efforts, I've always been left wanting more. (Did anyone else feel that 'Good Night, and Good Luck' over-promised and under-delivered?) Following his period flick 'Leatherheads', Clooney has returned to the genre of political cinema, and, during pre-production, clearly immersed himself in films of the 1970s. I certainly detected the stylistic influence of Michael Ritchie's 'The Candidate' and the conspiracy thrillers of Alan J. Pakula.
Clooney's solid direction is coupled with an excellent script. Based on a stage play by Beau Willimon, 'The Ides of March' tells an engrossing tale. It helps that the subject matter really floats my boat. I've always been fascinated by American politics and love any screen drama set in the White House or Capitol Hill, with 'The West Wing' being one of my favourite TV shows of all time. But, in this story, there are no heroes like Josh or Sam. In fact, there are few, if any likeable characters. And don't expect the idealism of Jed Bartlett or Matt Santos. This is about the cynical reality of a Presidential campaign and the compromises politicians are forced to make in their quest for power.
The real joy of this film is watching Ryan Gosling's character understand that reality, as we follow his gradual journey into a moral vacuum. His performance is outstanding. Plus, there's the added value of watching Philip Seymour Hoffman and Paul Giamatti chew plenty of scenery.
