Review of W. (2008) by Pat G — 24 Jul 2009

I really wanted more from this film.

First, let me say Josh Brolin is perfect in his portrayal of Bush. Cromwell and Dreyfuss are also good, but the other performances aren't the same quality as seen in other Stone movies.

This film may have been better if made at different time. Stone has Bush in over his head, which he did have right. There is always a conflict in a Stone character. Here it is Bush making decisions based on not repeating his father's mistakes which only distances him further from Bush Sr. However, there is always that longing for approval that W. feels he never got from his father and he wants it.

Although it does span pre-Washington times, the weight is too heavy on Iraq. Maybe that is the correct decision historically, since Bush himself said his success or failure is based on Iraq, but we get nothing about the economic downturn in the last year of his Presidency. Nothing about the effects of his education and tax decisions. So while I think the interpretation of Bush the man is probably correct, the supporting story to complete his history could have used a few more years perspective to make a more compelling movie.