3.5 Sally Field rambling complains out of 5
This is a tough review. This film was a highly anticipated one by movie-goers, myself included.
My motivation was primarily fueled by Daniel Day Lewis more so than the movie itself. My excitement was met halfway, and here is why:
The plot was mildly interesting, and I was glad to see the plot was about Lincoln and his 13th amendment more so than Lincoln himself, that was refreshing. Costumes were good, sets were elaborate, and the learning experience was fruitful. Steven Spielberg is always solid as well. What became annoying over time was Sally Field playing Mrs. Lincoln and Joseph Gordon-Levitt playing Lincoln's eldest son. Although the acting by these two must be respected, their characters are beyond annoying with their long winded woe is me rants about how their lives suck. This becomes a bit much, because myself as well as others in the audience become noticeably agitated by the constant complaining by these two. Any time this movie picked up steam one or both enter stage left and proceed to defecate all over the movie. I get it, your life sucks. For those who go to this movie, use their scenes as an opportunity to sneak a bathroom visit in, because the movie is also very long.
The see-saw battle between Lincolns family with the rest of the movie is evident but still worth a watch since this movie will most likely be in the discussion for "movie of the year." Also, by the looks of it, Daniel Day Lewis should be nominated for best actor as well.
