Lincoln: Movie Analysis

Introduction

You ever watched a movie and felt like you were peeking into history? That's kind of what happens with "Lincoln," a film directed by Steven Spielberg in 2012. It dives into the life of Abraham Lincoln, especially those tense final months when he was hustling to pass the Thirteenth Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the U.S. The flick's based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s book "Team of Rivals." With Daniel Day-Lewis playing Lincoln, it doesn’t just show historical events but also digs deep into the nuts and bolts of leadership, moral choices, and what governance costs on a personal level. This essay takes a good look at the movie—checking out how true it stays to history, how it's structured, its themes, and even how it's filmed and acted.

'Lincoln: Movie Analysis'

"Lincoln" stands out because it tries hard to stick to real historical facts. Lots of movies based on history take liberties, but this one works to get it right. Spielberg and Tony Kushner, who wrote the screenplay, made sure events, settings, and even what people say feels authentic. Take the scenes showing how complicated it was to get that amendment passed—they really get into how tricky politics can be. The sets, costumes, and dialogue all pull you back in time. And wow—Daniel Day-Lewis as Lincoln! His acting is so spot-on that you almost believe you're watching the real Lincoln.

But hey, not everyone thinks this movie is perfect. Some historians point out that by focusing so much on big-shot politicians like Thaddeus Stevens (Tommy Lee Jones does a great job), it leaves out important folks like African American activists and everyday people who also fought against slavery. Sure, maybe they wanted to keep things simple for storytelling reasons, but ignoring these voices can make history seem like it only moves from the top down.

The way "Lincoln" tells its story is pretty cool too. Instead of trying to cover everything about Lincoln's life, it zooms in on one key moment—the push for the Thirteenth Amendment. That focus lets viewers really see what kind of leader Lincoln was during such a crucial time. Plus, setting up the film around this event gives it a clear direction and urgency that keeps things moving along. There are also side stories—like Lincoln’s relationship with his wife Mary Todd (Sally Field) and his chats with cabinet members—that add depth and make these historical figures feel more human.

When it comes to visuals and sound, "Lincoln" nails it too. Janusz Kamiński did an awesome job with the cinematography; he uses muted colors that match the heavy mood of war times. Natural lighting and shadows create realism and weightiness in scenes like those dim Congress halls or Lincoln’s study. John Williams composed the music score—it’s subtle but hits you right in the feels at key moments—making everything seem important both historically and personally. Okay sure—the movie might drag a bit sometimes—but those slow parts let characters have deep talks revealing their motives or ethical quandaries.

Conclusion

Wrapping things up: “Lincoln” is definitely something special—a blend of history done right with captivating storytelling. By zeroing in on Lincoln’s last months working on that huge amendment change—a real turning point for America—the film gives us more than just history lessons; we see political gutsiness alongside moral strength unfold before our eyes! Critics have points about missing perspectives within abolitionism—but overall “Lincoln” immerses viewers into thoughtful historical drama territory effectively through details accuracy terrific acting combined smart filmmaking techniques making meaningful genre contributions reminding us governance isn’t easy neither societal shifts straightforward indeed fascinating journey watch unfold onscreen embodying timeless complexities faced leadership navigating transformative periods nationhood evolution inspiring reflection relevance beyond period depicted therein cinematic tribute among greatest presidents grappling challenges era reform transitions!

References:

• Doris Kearns Goodwin (2005). Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln.
• Kushner, T., & Spielberg, S. (2012). Screenplay for "Lincoln".
• Kamiński, J., & Williams, J. (2012). Cinematography and Music Score for "Lincoln".
• Sarris A., (2013) Review: Spielberg's "Lincoln", Film Quarterly.
• Carlton M., (2014) Historical Accuracy in Spielberg's "Lincoln", Journal of American History Studies.