FILM FREAK: 4 buckets
MOVIE GEEK'S REVIEW:
This is one of those films that will be talked about throughout the awards season. And it's quite deserving of all the talk.
Based on the play of the same name, "Frost/Nixon" is a chronicle of TV talk show host David Frost's 1977 journey to interview scandal-plagued President Richard Nixon.
While a majority of the film is centered on the interview, the first half follows Frost's uphill battle to land the interview.
Ron Howard has never had a problem garnering Academy Award nominations, and "Frost/Nixon" is his best chance at actually grabbing the Best Director Oscar.
First on his list to thank will have to be Frank Langella. His interpretation of Nixon is unbelievable to watch, and is the reason for this film's success.
Langella and Michael Sheen originated their respective roles in the London play, and both bring their A-game to this big-screen adaptation.
The two main players are surrounded by a terrific cast: Sam Rockwell, Kevin Bacon and Oliver Platt. All three turn in some of their finest work in years.
As far as historical accuracy, 1977 was a little before my time, so I can't make a first-person comparison. A lot of the information was completely new to me, so it was a delight to see it all unfold.
"Frost/Nixon" is sure to be on a lot of award lists, but I hesitate to say it'll actually win any of the top Oscars.
While I believe Ron Howard will go home empty handed again, Langella might get one of the coveted statues.
4 buckets.
FILM FREAK'S REVIEW:
President Nixon's resignation came a bit before my time, so I found it difficult to relate to the movie. Like many others, however, I have a curiosity about the only president to have walked away from the office.
After the Watergate scandal forced Nixon to resign, the first televised interview he gave was to British talk show host David Frost.
It's been written that Nixon thought Frost would be easily manipulated in an interview. The former president was able to do just that for a time. In the end, though, he gets more than he bargained for.
Masterfully written and terrifically directed by Ron Howard, I'm sure that "Frost/Nixon" will win a few awards.
I think that the Best Actor nod might go to Frank Langella for his portrayal of Nixon. Langella completely nailed the part, and truly is the highlight of this film.
This is a strong film that, come award season, will be Ron Howard's best shot at winning a Best Director award.
4 buckets.
