Political Drama As Its Very Finest

Rating: 9/10 (30 October 2016)

Admired by lot but hated by the mass there is no denying that Richard Nixon solidly stamped his reputation as a powerful leader and though he made major errors that ruined the man and virtually killed his reputation, we can't all help but show a small fragment of humanity and unleash some sympathy while many others don't even after his death in 1994. Even after his resignation from the office, Tricky Dick can still germinate power just by stepping through a door. When coming to an interview, Nixon can manipulate his responses through his commanding voice and his subliminal charm. In "Frost/Nixon", director Ron Howard casts Frank Langella to play the part of Nixon we examine the fragile personification of just how insecure Richard truly is. Even though he's graced the screen long before I was born, this is truly one of Langella's best performance in in is illustrious career. Once his presence is on-screen, you just sit there at his attention and you're glued to him. Langella was nominated for an Oscar in his performance and his nomination was well justified.
The other supporting cast were also impressive in their respected roles. The other strong leading performance comes from Michael Sheen as the downtrodden interviewer David Frost and Oliver Platt and Sam Rockwell were equally poignant as the two investigators on assignment to help Frost prepare for this very important interview that could either make him or break him. Even though Langella was carrying the heavy cargo, the supporting cast is just as important and are not being treated like glorified insignificant cameos. The real standout in terms of supporting characters was Kevin Bacon in his performance as Nixon's Chief of Staff Jack Brennan. Sure he understands that Nixon is not the most honest person ever lived but still has fondness for him. Even though he's shamed everyone including himself, Brennan still admires the man and will look up him though all damnation. Sure Bacon has always been a wonderful performer and he delivers well though I think he's undermined here.
The direction from Ron Howard is one of the beat he's done in his career. The interview displayed here was both very insightful and interesting. The whole idea of a British journalist interviewing a former President may not hold everyone's interests, but the character arcs and the storyline leading to the exhilarating interview carries the film along in an immaculate perspective. Sure during this interview you can't help but feel sympathy for Frost as he's placed in precarious situation against a very intimidating man like Nixon. But you get that moment of relief when Frost retorts back at Nixon as the ex-President is beside himself knowing that Frost pulled a fast one at him.
The only thing that was missing from "Frost/Nixon" was that near the end I was hoping that a defeated Nixon would gingerly walk back into his limo. The movie displayed a corrupt leader who's action will never be forgiving no matter what. But there's still that little ounce of pity we have for the man. He made a very big mistake and in the end he's still a human being who'll live this mistake long after his death. The final ending just needed something that needed an ending that needed a powerful disclosure instead of a semi-faded whisper.
The year 2008 had some really good films and "Frost/Nixon" certainly tops the list. Frank Langella really shine brilliantly and the film will keep you interested for the next two hours. It might not have the impact like I anticipated, this movie is essentially important for all moviegoers to see. Nixon was a giant in the political spectrum and Frank Langella captured the character very splendidly.