Review of Lincoln: Speilberg's done it again

Last night I saw the highly anticipated film 'Lincoln' at the cinema. It was absolutely without a shadow of a doubt the best thing I've seen in a long time. I think it will be a classic in years to come and it certainly is, and will continue to be, an epic. Not only was it fascinating and gripping but emotional and well balanced. Initially, I was concerned about being able to follow the plot due to my embarrassing lack of knowledge of American history but although the film was detailed and 2.5 hours long I think I understood all of it! 
Each scene is a masterpiece. Lincoln is hundreds of wonderful mini-films threaded together beautifully. There was nothing artificial or trite in my opinion. It flowed majestically and the lighting and accuracy of the sets and costumes  made the various situations completely believable. 

Of course the highlight for everyone, including myself, was Daniel Day Lewis's exceptional portrayal of the title role. I was routing for Lincoln after the first few seconds of the film. Day Lewis's Lincoln is charming, intellectual and compassionate. He has a brutal side that perhaps could have been explored further. In many ways however, I am glad Spielberg chose to idolize the president because this created heightened tension in certain parts of the film as every single person in the cinema was a temporary Republican.

I've often admired the way Spielberg tackles 'baddies'. In 'Lincoln' the Democrats occasionally bring humour but are mostly used to highlight the stark contrast in opinion on the matter of the 13th amendment. The Republican/Democrat relationship was compelling and dangerous.

As for gore there is very little but the bits (if you'll pardon the pun) that feature are bloody and stomach churning. This should not put you off at all. For me the best scene came straight after a very bloody panorama. Lincoln is speaking to two black men who have been in battle. One of the men is in awe of Lincoln and speaks with the utmost respect. The other man is passionate, interrupting his friend to speak powerful words to the president explaining how inequality truly affects the black people. It is harrowing yet it sets the film off at a steady pace and provides an emotional background for the audience. 

If you miss out on 'Lincoln' then I am very, very sorry. You will have missed one of the best things to come out of America in a good long while. Go for: a fantastic film with even better facial hair.  

nERD