Its a film I can say I learnt something

Rating: 8/10 (28 December 2012)

I found the film heavy going but not being an American found that I was watching History and that was something I really did enjoy as I watched the film unfold and how Lincoln was a very clever and masterful politician in achieving the goal of the 13th Amendment (abolishment of slavery) and how he did that against a background of negativity and prejudice. This is not a film for the faint hearted already 150 minutes long and very heavy in dialogue throughout. It is a very intense film and focuses well on the build up to the 13th amendment which was written into the American constitution which goes to the heart of the American psyche. Spielberg draws out an acting Masterclass from some worthy actors and Sally Field as Mrs Lincoln comes out strong in a mainly male environment. Daniel Day Lewis appears to have been born to play the part come Oscar time if he hasn't won Best Actor I wonder how he could be beaten on this performance he is head and shoulders above anyone else. I go to the cinema to be enthralled, mesmerised or educated, on this occasion I was educated - I don't feel that I know everything about Lincoln what i do know he was a great American and what he achieved and what he stood for is something that Americamns can be proud of- Spielberg does a good job in that sense sadly he uses a few too many clichés but he does a great job of evoking pride in a Nation that now has a Black President.