Teen Review of "Lincoln"

Worthy of a Monument

by C.T.

Packed with award-winning actors and directed by Spielberg, Lincoln offers a riveting look inside the office of the 16th president. Set during the President’s last four months in office, the film focuses on the struggle to preserve the union and end the bloody Civil War as well as enact the 13th Amendment with a strong opposition. Not only does the film paint the portrait of Lincoln the President, it also shows him as a father, a husband, and a comical story-teller.

            Daniel Day-Lewis does not just play Lincoln, he becomes him as his acting extends beyond mimicry. His uncanny resemblance only adds to his mastery of the character. With his slouched posture, deep-in-thought demeanor, and command of his words, Day-Lewis’ performance is well worth its praise. Other outstanding performances were those of Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones as radical abolitionist, Thaddeus Stevens.

            Along with a grand depiction of Lincoln, the film tackles the division within Congress on the issue of slavery as President Lincoln aims to have the 13th Amendment passed before the end of the Civil War. By opening the closed doors to the viewers, Lincoln exposes the manipulation and dirty deals behind the adoption of the 13th Amendment.

            Not just a movie, but a work of art, Lincoln is a five star film.