The Director and The Actor Shine in this Excellent Film

Rating: 9/10 (4 March 2013)

Imagine to yourself for one moment, "What if Steven Spielberg and Daniel Day-Lewis teamed up?" Well, this is the beautiful result of these talents fusing themselves together. Lincoln is no ordinary film. It doesn't fall into any category of biopic or historical fiction film. When you watch this film, you are watching the moment. You are there, seeing and hearing it.
This film is not about the life of Abraham Lincoln from childhood to the bullet at Ford's Theatre, but rather a short time span, the battle to pass the 13th Amendment. I had no idea that it was only this, so I was genuinely surprised. It is rather interesting to see Lincoln get down and dirty to get votes, but not dirty enough to lose our respect for him. All this comes down to Tony Kushner's witty, informative, and taut screenplay based on Doris Kerns Goodwin's novel "Team of Rivals."
But the sparks really come from Daniel Day-Lewis as Abraham Lincoln. We are very used to seeing Lincoln as a deep voiced monument, unflappable and stoic. Here, Lewis makes him a very good man, but has his flaws and limited patience with failure. He's a country man who loves to tell stories (even if some people hilariously don't care for them.) He also understands how important the amendment is for future generations and for ending the war, something his cabinet doesn't fully understand because they lack his farsightedness. This is his finest performance by far, which is saying something.
The supporting cast is extensive. They range from actors of this generation, lost actors from old, and some you totally wouldn't expect. Tommy Lee Jones gives an outstanding portrayal of Thaddeus Stevens, even better than his role in "The Fugitive." Sally Field is good as Mary Todd Lincoln, but not great compared to all the hype surrounding her. David Strathiarn is perfect and the others give great work as well.
Steven Spielberg is finally back on top, delivering some of his best work since Saving Private Ryan. He has been in a rut for a while, and here he is passionate, driven, and inspired to tell this story. He has one of the best ensemble casts in a recent film, and handles each with dignity, transforming them into their historic counterparts. he even wore a suit while directing this film, something he rarely ever does, signifying his commitment and dedication to the project. I tip my hat to the man.
I tip my hat to this film, one of the best of this decade.