Review of Nixon (1995) by Sergio B — 06 Jul 2012

I will admit, Anthony Hopkins does not look like Nixon, but after the first couple scenes this aesthetic problem becomes void. Not only does Hopkins nail the mannerisms of the historical figure, but gives a deep and compelling humanity to the character.

Director Oliver Stone delivers a tad un-even but very epic and ambitious biopic that leaves no part of Nixon's life un-explored. Stone mostly succeeds in portraying the controversial historical figure with nice objectivity and showing the dirty underbelly of politics.

Although the film runs at a whopping 3 hours, Stones tight editing and visceral (almost hallucinatory at times) direction keeps the pace in check. Hopkins performance, along with the film's great supporting cast, alone make the 3 hour runtime worth it.