Lincoln Movie Analysis

Lincoln is a movie based off of Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin, which portrays the latter end of Abraham Lincoln’s illustrious career. The film is based around Congressional debate and Lincoln’s attempts to pass the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery in the United States. The movie is centered in Washington D.C. and the areas surrounding it between the Emancipation Proclamation in January, 1863, and the death of Lincoln in April, 1865. The film raises the issues of slavery, ending the Civil War, political strife, familial strife and general morality. Lincoln, being a Hollywood film, was meant to entertain the viewers. However, the movie sticks so close to reality that the movie is not as entertaining, rather more informative. The major themes of the film all
The screenplay was slow, the music minimal, and the direction intriguing. However, the casting, acting and production values were on point. Daniel Day Lewis, Tommy Lee Jones, and James Spader were definitely the highlights in their roles. Symbolism, character development, and foreshadowing are all techniques evident in the film. The 13th Amendment symbolized a new beginning in racial equality which angered many. William B. Bilbo is developed as a character by James Spader through his actions as an unwieldy lobbyist. Foreshadowing is evident all throughout the film, especially with the peace talks with Richmond backfiring on Lincoln’s equality plans. In the grand scheme of things, this movie is not for the younger generation. Instances of foul language, and complex jargon of the time make for a very mature film. Much of the film echoes discussions in class. Copperheads and the opposition to the war are loudly heard though Fernando Wood. Radical Republicans are evident with the divisive action within the party