Lincoln

Opening with scenes of Civil War carnage, Steven Spielberg's epic cinematic chronicle of the last months in the life of the 16th President of the United States is partly based on Doris Kearns Goodwin's book Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln. Adapted by Tony Kushner, the sensitive, compelling script delineates Lincoln's determination to unite the divided nation and convince rowdy, cantankerous curmudgeons in the House of Representatives to pass the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which would permanently abolish slavery. Willing to offer bribery and patronage, Lincoln was a shrewd genius of complicated political strategy, a conflicted yet canny and commanding figure who is brilliantly portrayed here in an Oscar-winning performance by Daniel Day-Lewis. Not only is the physical resemblance striking (aided by makeup), but Day-Lewis also alters his normal baritone to speak in a lighter, warmer tenor voice, perfect for the witty quips and folksy storytelling of engaging raconteur Lincoln. Oscar nominees Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones shine as distraught Mary Todd Lincoln and crusading Congressman Thaddeus Stevens, respectively. Also memorable in the ensemble cast are David Strathairn, Hal Holbrook, John Hawkes, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and James Spader. The production values are superlative, particularly the subtle use of chiaroscuro lighting, which adds to the period authenticity. One of 2012's best films, this is highly recommended. Editor's Choice. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include “The Journey to Lincoln” featurette with director Steven Spielberg (9 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is “A Historic Tapestry: Richmond, Virginia” location featurette (4 min.), and a bonus DVD copy of the film. Exclusive to the four-disc Blu-ray/DVD/Digital Copy Combo set is a second Blu-ray disc with production featurettes including the behind-the-scenes “Living with Lincoln” with Spielberg (27 min.), “In Lincoln's Footsteps” on editing, sound design, and score (17 min.), “Crafting the Past” (11 min.), and “In the Company of Character” on the cast (10 min.), as well as a bonus digital copy of the film. Bottom line: a decent extras package for one of 2012's best films.] (S. Granger)