Nixon is a powerful, engaging film about the infamous, Richard Nixon. It relies on the performances of Tony Hopkins and Joan Allen, two of the greatest actors living, and they succeed. The directing style is brilliant, although has some rough patches that could've been smoothed over.
Anthony Hopkins approach to the role should be an example for every actor starring in a biopic. He doesn't try to impersonate Nixon. He represents Richard Nixon, which makes it a more convincing performance. You completely forget you're watching a film, instead a docudrama because Sir Anthony Hopkins is *that* good. Joan Allen should've been locked for the acting trophy for Best Supporting Actress 30 minutes into the first screening of the film in '95. One of the earlier scenes between she and her husband is uncanny. She brings to life the bitterness Pat Nixon went through.
Though, the acting would seem like the highlight of this powerful biopic, it's the editing, in my opinion. They piece together Richard Nixon's entire life, literally his entire life. And they shot frame by frame almost everything here, so the majority of the responsibility belonged to the editor, who brought authenticity to every single moment here. There are some problems though. First, some of the political drama is hard to follow unless you know what you're talking about. Especially to mainstream audiences, it would be confusing. Second, the only film I condone for being 3 hours long is Titanic. There is no reason why this, or any film needs to strain audiences for three hours. You feel like you're watching a miniseries. Just say what you want to say and be done with it.
That being said, Oliver Stone hits more than he misses, a lot more. It's near perfection; 9.
Anthony Hopkins approach to the role should be an example for every actor starring in a biopic. He doesn't try to impersonate Nixon. He represents Richard Nixon, which makes it a more convincing performance. You completely forget you're watching a film, instead a docudrama because Sir Anthony Hopkins is *that* good. Joan Allen should've been locked for the acting trophy for Best Supporting Actress 30 minutes into the first screening of the film in '95. One of the earlier scenes between she and her husband is uncanny. She brings to life the bitterness Pat Nixon went through.
Though, the acting would seem like the highlight of this powerful biopic, it's the editing, in my opinion. They piece together Richard Nixon's entire life, literally his entire life. And they shot frame by frame almost everything here, so the majority of the responsibility belonged to the editor, who brought authenticity to every single moment here. There are some problems though. First, some of the political drama is hard to follow unless you know what you're talking about. Especially to mainstream audiences, it would be confusing. Second, the only film I condone for being 3 hours long is Titanic. There is no reason why this, or any film needs to strain audiences for three hours. You feel like you're watching a miniseries. Just say what you want to say and be done with it.
That being said, Oliver Stone hits more than he misses, a lot more. It's near perfection; 9.
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