Phenomenal Performances, Thrilling Story

Rating: 8/10 (20 December 2008)

If it's drama you want, it's drama you'll get. 'Frost/Nixon' is a fierce cat and mouse political game, one that gleams of tension and intellectual wit. While falling short of an unabashed masterpiece, Ron Howard has taken the popular play of the same name and given it the Hollywood treatment. An exceptional film filled with fine performances as far as the eye can see, it entertains as well as educates.
While mostly unnecessary, Howard's mockumentary approach to the story seems fitting enough as it does add some historical weight to 'Frost/Nixon'. It all becomes an absorbing experience, and at times it's easy to forget that thirty years have passed since David Frost and Richard Nixon set foot in the ring to duel. But if understanding history is a pivotal cornerstone, then 'Frost/Nixon' remains an important and powerful history lesson. Even if it's been spiced up for the silver screen in the process. And during a current administration whose dealings have been questionable at best, learning from our mistakes is the only way we'll ever learn.
'Frost/Nixon' plays out very much as if it were unfolding on stage. And that allows our cast to soak up a thrilling script and show off some serious acting chops. Michael Sheen's performance as David Frost, a sort of Ryan Seacrest of the '70s, is brilliant. An underdog opportunity to take on a man who would never stand trial for one of the greatest crimes committed in American history. It was an oddball moment in history for sure, which made the end result that much more surprising. And the man who steals the show is, of course, a stunning Frank Langella. His portrayal of Richard Nixon is nothing short of astonishing. It's more of an immersion into Nixon the man instead of a mere imitation.
Strangely enough, Nixon doesn't come off as the villain. Rather, a man who is finally forced to stand the trial he never had to endure in the court of law. The court of public opinion, however, can be just as damning. Nixon could no longer hide from the truth. He was a man haunted by his own grave mistakes that greatly hurt a nation, and it was time to stare them in the face. It's a notable and at times memorable film, even if it doesn't always jump off the screen. Offering up a finale so fascinating and thick with tension, it's difficult to deny the skill and finesse involved to give 'Frost/Nixon' the justice it deserved. It's an impressive showing, and one of the year's better films.
More reviews: rottentomatoes.com/vine/journal_view.php?journalid=219276&view=public