Review of Nixon (1995) by Ted H — 28 Dec 2008

I am quite pleased that I discovered this film for two reasons: 1) I got to enjoy this enthralling moving portrait of one of our most ambiguous and misunderstood politicians; 2) I now understand the mind behind that other great biopic-epic, Alexander.

Both Alexander and Nixon are labors of love from one of our most controversial and unapologetic directors, Oliver Stone. Alexander, to me, was something of an anomaly in terms of photography, editing, and plot layout.

Now that I have tasted another of Stone's recipes, I can see that this is his peculiar style of film making. I was thoroughly impressed with this one. Although Mr. Hopkins is lacking in the physical resemblance department, he doesn't let that deter him from channeling this man's passion, ambition, and sheer frustration onto the screen effectively and convincingly.

Likewise, all other roles are well played. Speaking of which, this has got to be one of the biggest, if not the biggest, all-star casts I have yet encountered. Everywhere you look, there is a familiar face to someone (Robert Beltran/Commander Chakotay!!!).

I am glad Mr. Stone does not allow negative criticism to prevent him from making these epic peeks into the lives of history's darlings. He has obviously found his particular calling in this genre.

Kudos.