Visitors Review

Marcus Lundqvist (2012-05-25 05:44)

A great movie with a plot that gets more thickened as the story goes on

Before I saw The Ides of March I read some of the reviews of thismovie. One thing that almost every single one of the reviewersmentioned was that the movie started of great, but then nothing reallyhappened. My opinion is the exact opposite. In the beginning of themovie it's just a plantation of what the movie will be about. You getintroduced to the characters of the movie and after about 20-30minutes, the snowball begins to roll. I thought that the movie was a great film, filled with an intensethrill. And whether you think that the movie is going slow, or thatit's exciting to watch, you'd still be wondering "how's it going toend?" But, I think that you have to be concentrated while watching thisfilm. I'm not saying that you should be glued to your TV or Computer,but in order to experience the intensity in this film you'll have tostay focused on the plot. I also read the trivia to this film and saw that Philip Seymour Hoffmanreplaced Brad Pitt in the role of Paul. I'm grateful for that, since itfeels like a typical Hoffman-roll. And he's amazing in this movie. RyanGosling does one of his finest appearances. And George Clooney, well,he's always going to be George Clooney and at this point at his careerit's kind of hard watching him play a roll without thinking "That'sGeorge Clooney". If you're in to thrillers about corruption, andethical questions about what is right and what is wrong, this i moviethat you will appreciate.

TheUnknown837-1 (2012-05-24 22:40)

Mr. Clooney's new picture is proof that the movies can redeem even the most dull and uninteresting of subject matter

George Clooney plays a central supporting role in "The Ides of March"but his most important contribution to the picture is what he doesstanding behind the camera. From Beau Willimon's play "Farragut North"he, Mr. Willimon, and Grant Heslov have fashioned a picture that standsseveral tiers above what I was expecting of it. It is proof, as far asI am concerned, that the old theory that the movies can redeem anysubject matter for any viewer is hard and solid as concrete.I am not the biggest fan of politics. For me, it's always been sort ofa sophomoric mudslinging match between well-tailored stiffs with verylittle really being accomplished, or even attempted to be accomplishedin-between. Politics has been annoying whenever it's not just plaindull for this viewer, but "The Ides of March" manages to weave aninteresting and informative story about the dirty, unethical thingsthat take place whenever those fine-tailored stiffs are not mutteringpseudointellectual mumbo-jumbo on their stands.The picture reaffirms my belief that they only believe half of whatthey are really saying, and that it is more of a mudslinging match.Here we have Ryan Gosling as a political campaigner working to get aoily-tongued governor into the office of president. In the midst ofdodging and contending with reporters and rivals from the opposingparty, Mr. Gosling finds himself in the bed of a pretty young intern(the always enchanting Evan Rachel Wood) and from there explodes ascandal of such proportions that it destroys his composure, his career,and his relationships with those close to him.We all read about political scandals in the newspaper everyday, butwhat makes "The Ides of March" such a great film is the way it exploitsand delves into the dynamics involved. Half the time when I read anarticle in the New York Times or U.S.A. Today about an event like theone depicted here, I am left to speculate just how in the worldsomething as astronomically common as an extra-marital affair wouldspiral into a world of absolute insanity beyond the betrayers'household. Half a century ago, nobody would have cared (do you recallJ.F.K. and Marilyn Monroe and how little fuss anybody kicked up overthat one?). The movie takes this into account and allowed me to believein what was happening. It shed a little light on what I read in thepaper every day.That's also what makes "The Idea of March" so efficient a time-passer:the amount of information that it has to offer. How campaigners work,how they prepare for speeches, how they spiff up and communicate withthe figure they are trying to promote. As the director, Mr. Clooneywisely limits his screen time in order to provide more information forthe supporting figures so easily overlooked and when he does appear, heis commanding the screen since like the character he plays, isultimately the one whom the whole paradox revolves around. Thescreenplay is also so intelligently-written that "old hat speeches"about trust and betrayal are absolutely gripping. There's a scene wherethe campaign manager, played by Philip Seymour Hoffman (who seems tohave played this part as a way to comeback for his degenerized work inthe disappointing and impersonal "Moneyball") gives a sixty-secondlecture to Mr. Gosling about the values of trust over friendship in acampaign and it's absolutely startling. Not only line is corny, not onesyllable out of place."The Ides of March" is a hard film to really discuss without giving toomuch away, which I certainly do not want to do, since I want those whohave not seen it to be as surprised as I was. Apart from what I'vealready said, I will warn those that the ending of the picture doescome a bit suddenly and will leave some wanting a little more. But whatcomes before that, especially in the last twenty minutes or so, is someof the best writing, directing, and acting that has been seen in theotherwise unimpressive year of 2011.Comments on the cast.Mr. Gosling, a wonderful actor, is perfectly-cast as the campaigner whoappears to throw his career away and then aggressively fights to get itback. Mr. Hoffman, as I said earlier, is superb and makes a memorableperformance out of a part so many could have just done averagely. MissWood, as always, is enchanting, sympathetic, and strong in herportrayal as the intern. Paul Giamitti, using sharp dialogue andterrific expressions in his eyes, is conniving as a rival worker.Marisa Tomei, impossible to recognize beyond her acting ability, isin-character and sharp as a scandal reporter out to ruin Mr. Gosling'sday. And I must not leave out writer/director/star George Clooney whosemultifaceted talents obviously contributed a lot to the production."The Ides of March" is one of the best movies of the year.

Sandy Landin (2012-05-18 10:08)

Depressing leftist propaganda

I had hoped I would never have to think of this movie ever again, but Ifeel compelled to warn other unsuspecting movie goers. I was duped bythe wonderful reviews and a preview that looked like, finally, I wasgoing to see a movie with an actual conflict and a character whostruggles with what is the right thing to do. I wasted my time andmoney on this leftist propaganda. What we actually have here are characters without a moral compass. Andwriters who assume (wrongly) that we all want the same thingspolitically. They think the end justifies the means and they throw in afew digs as if to say "everyone is doing it so why not us?". It's sodepressing. Those involved with the making of this movie tried to leaveus with the message that all human beings are basically pond scum. Idon't share that view, but I suspect those involved were beingintrospective.

thesar-2 (2012-05-18 03:34)

Happy Birthday to Me

While I liked George Clooney's latest, The Ides of March, he did aneven better job (other than directing, starring and writing) of lettingRyan take the lead.Well, it really was Ryan Gosling's movie, and (looking a little toothin) Clooney made sure he did take center stage. And that was a wiseand entertaining choice.Here's the problem: The movie preaches to the queer. OK, well, noteveryone – or Michele Bachmann wouldn't be anywhere in the poles, letalone any of the other recent Republican candidates… but I digress, themovie's message is to *gulp* say politics are DIRTY?Yeah, I know that. Luckily, that's not the only thing the movie's gotgoing for it – and I'm sure all the equally wonderful things will, atvery least, get the movie a nod for Best Picture of 2010 at the Oscars.It has a fantastic and extensive cast that all do their very best whileno one really steals the spotlight, à la A Few Good Men. (Sure, in thatcase it was Tom chewing up the scenery as does Ryan here, but, overall,everyone's pretty much equal.) It has realistic writing, greatcinematography and fun twists.Now, that said, again, it boils down to, SHOCKER, politics (notice: Ididn't say POLICITIANS) is bad, mmmkay. It was spoiled to me, and Iguess I'm doing the same here…that there's a twist. My buddy and I –unbelievably, we were the ONLY TWO in the theatre when this was shown –were both trying to guess (outloud) what the turning point would be andwe agreed on one and, alas, were wrong.We were so convinced that I didn't see the real one coming. That madefor good entertainment, but again…it's not really a big SURPRISE thatPoliticians (yeah, I used that word, this time) can do some bad things.Overall, I liked the movie – it showed real humans and a few actualbehind-the-scenes of a political campaigns, Republican or Democrat, andit's worth a viewing. Perfect, oh God no. Great, eh. It wasn't TheContender or All the President's Men, but then not many politicianthrillers are.Side Note: Oh, my headliner's an inside joke and a bit of trivia…See ifyou can guess my Birthday?

jon.h.ochiai (2012-05-16 18:40)

The Death of an Ideal

"The Ides of March" is not about the assassination of the Emperor onthe Senate floor. However, the title serves as a metaphor. GeorgeClooney's "The Ides of March" sublimely mourns the murder of idealismin one of the best movies of the year. New York Times Reporter Ida(played by Marisa Tomei) requests a favor for a press comment,reminding Ryan Gosling's Stephen Meyer that they are friends. Standingtall with a soulless stare of absolution Stephen says, "You are my bestfriend." Earlier in the Gulfstream ride, vibrant idealistic campaignpress strategist Stephen tells his man, Governor Mike Morris (GeorgeClooney), "… I have to believe in the cause." Gosling is powerful asStephen, a good man trapped in betrayal choosing the lesser of evils,selling his soul with both eyes open. Director and Writer GeorgeClooney's vision is fluid and captivating in his modern day tragicfable. Clooney is deceptively brilliant in his portrayal of Morris, thepoised charismatic man of integrity. He boldly shades an unexpecteddarkness, in this tale of deceit and human frailty.Clooney along with Grant Heslov ("Good Night, and Good Luck"), and BeauWillimon wrote the screenplay for "The Ides of March" based onWillimon's play, "Farragut North". The story follows the DemocraticPresidential Campaign of Governor Mike Morris (Clooney) converging uponthe critical tipping point of the Ohio Primaries. His opponent SenatorPullman (intentionally nondescript Michael Mantell) is pretty much avanilla flavor candidate, but close in the polls. Both are vying forthe endorsement of Senator Thompson (brazen Jeffrey Wright), who holds350 delegates—effectively anointing the nomination. Stephen andCampaign Manager Paul (great Philip Seymour Hoffman) discover that theSenator's endorsement comes at a price: Secretary of State. However,Morris knows Thompson is a dirt bag, refuses to play ball, essentiallycommitting political suicide.Stephen (Gosling) takes an ominous phone call from Tom Duffy (earnestlymanipulative Paul Giamatti), who is Pullman's Campaign Manager. Hediscloses a pivotal game changer, and asks Stephen to abandon Paul andMorris and work for him. Stephen declines, staying his course.Unfortunately, things get convoluted as information of their informalmeeting is somehow leaked.Meanwhile, engaging in a diversion from the all consuming campaign 30year-old Stephen has a tryst with brilliant and seductive 20 year-oldcampaign aide Molly (strong and sexy Evan Rachel Wood), whose Dad JackStearns (solid Gregory Itzin) happens to be Democratic Party Chairman.Seemingly free-spirited Molly hides a tragic secret. Here DirectorClooney seamlessly and effortlessly blends the unsavory and unforgivingnarratives. He always displays such confidence in his actors, as if weare ease dropping on their conversations.All is not even what it had seemed to be. Gosling's Stephen is leftdrowning in a Machiavellian quagmire of avarice and deceit. Evan RachelWood is tragic and vulnerable as the collateral victim of the cause.Philip Seymour Hoffman is amazing as Paul, the man who values loyaltyabove all. Hoffman compels as a man who can't out smart his tragicflaws. Clooney is awesome. His surprising dark turn is powerful,although it seems a bit out of context aside from the dramatic arc.Ryan Gosling is mesmerizing. Ultimately, "The Ides of March" soarsbecause he solemnly captures the fall from idealism and grace. Heembodies great humanity as a man transforms into what he most despises."The Ides of March" has deep sadness in the loss of idealism, andpoetically asks: At what cost do the ends ever justify the means? "TheIdes of March" is provocative and one of the year's best.

Matthew Massie (2012-05-16 00:24)

Clooney should have stepped aside...for the right reasons.

George Clooney is a great actor. But, he doesn't do much of it (acting)in this film. And, he is a good director. I can't attribute much to his'personal style' because it seems to change with each film he has made.The one constant: The man likes to, in John Cassavettes fashion, use ALOT of closeups. And, there are many of them. Right there on the face,long cuts, and it almost makes the dialogue irrelevant, which thedialogue should be. I harken back to when a crew member asked John Fordonce what they were going to shoot in the desert, and Ford replied,"The most interesting thing in the world: A human face."So, I like Clooney's choices for this piece, even if it was distractingsometimes to what he was trying to do with the story. Personally, Ithink he should have stepped aside in his role, and let some other"name" have it. And, NOT because he is not a good actor. A good actorhad to be in the role for the scene of the climax. If a good actor isnot in that role for the climax, you run the risk of destroying themovie. In fact, the only reason an actor with "draw" needed to be inthat role was FOR the climax, and you will see what I mean when you seeit. He should have just directed and picked the right person for it.That, and I don't think he's believable as a Governor.Ultimately, it is a pretty good film with very deep and true-to-lifethemes about what motivates people in politics, all encapsulated in aSocial Drama that masks itself pretty well, until all the turningpoints start revealing and then closing themselves, and it becomes athriller.There is about thirty minutes of build-up and character development,maybe even 45 minutes, before we reach the inciting incident: the verything that can turn the whole story on it's head. And, from there itgets interesting, you almost get the idea that this actually happened,right underneath all of our noses. So, it drags until we reach thatmoment, and from there moves pretty quickly until climax.I first saw Ryan Gosling in The United State of Leland at Sundance in2003, and he has not disappointed me in any film I have seen him in. Hewas very good in this, and proves to all of us the range he is capableof. Doing the range of emotions that was required for his role is veryvery hard for any actor to do and to sell.The Climax, Resolution and Conclusion is worth the price of admission.Especially the conclusion. It is chilling, and Gosling pulls it offperfectly in one of Clooney's great close-ups.

freemantle_uk (2012-05-15 03:48)

The culture of distrust

One of the big debates for any political candidates is do you stick toyour principles no matter what or do you compromise to ensure you canget yourself elected. This is one of many themes The Ides of Marchexamines in this look of human character.In the Ohio Democrat Presidential Primary there are only two men leftin the race, Mike Morris (George Clooney), the Governor of Pennsylvaniaand Senator Pullman (Michael Mantell), a senator from Arkansas. StephenMeyers (Ryan Gosling) is Morris' deputy Campaign Manager, a 30-year-oldman with a sharp political mind and really believes in Morris as acandidate. But Stephen makes a fatal mistake, he meets the rivalcandidate manager, Tom Duffy (Paul Giamatti) and slowly Morris turnsfrom the front runner to facing a tough neck-and-neck race. But Stephennot just suffers a political crisis but also an personal and career oneas well.The strongest aspect of The Ides of March is acting from the wholecast. Clooney assembles a great cast, Gosling, Giamatti, Philip SeymourHoffman, Jeffrey Wright, Evan Rachel Wood and Marisa Tomei. These wereall well developed, interesting real characters as we see Stephen getscorrupted by the political process. Gosling starts as a wide eyeddecent bloke who becomes a morally despicable, first out of loyalty anda determination to win to his ambition for revenge. Most of thecharacters are bad or flawed and Philip Seymour Hoffman was possiblythe most sympathetic because despite his brass exterior he makes averdure of loyalty and committed to the cause whilst Wood is simply ayoung woman who goes in over her head. Whilst Clooney seems like adecent politician, a man who wants to stay committed to his principlesbut in the end but no different to any other politician. Plus Clooneyactually did not have much screen time, this was a film focusing on thecampaign staff.As well as being about politics and the political process, this is acharacter study on the affects of power and ambition someone.Clooney's direction was pretty standard but I put it down to the factthe film is based on a play. A lot of the film is people speaking roomsas plot in various ways. It was almost like an edgy version of the WestWing but have different viewpoints on politics: The West Wing's view isthat politicians are people who believe in their ideology because theygenuinely believe it is best for the country and the system ofcompromise acts a check, whilst in The Ides of March the system ofcompromise is a way to weaken ideals and shows that some people arewilling to do anything for power.The original played avoided mentioning which political party it focusedon. Clooney turned The Ides of March into focusing on the DemocraticPrimary but there are some hints of play's political counter-balance bymaking out Senator Thompson (Wright) to be a bit like John Bolton (aright wing nut), claiming the top ten floors of the UN could removed.It is also an examination of how in politics that even people withinthe same side, the same campaign backbite each other let alone theiroppoents: these are people who are meant to have similar ideology (andbefore someone gets clever I know American politics is a lot morecomplex). But this continues the theme of power corrupting people,people within any organisation are vying for top dog.One problem I have with many political films is it boils down to a sexscandal. I accept that a sex scandal would have massive affect on acampaign, but there are other things that could derail a campaign. Butit is still a better executed film compared to Primary Colors and Wagthe Dog.

(2012-05-14 16:52)

Good Thriller

Press Secretary Stephen Meyers (Gosling) tries to fix a problem whileworking for Governor Morris (Clooney) who is running for President ofthe United States.This is based upon a play by Beau Willimon titled: Farragut North.The title changed to The Ides of March. But, no one was shouting,"Beware,the Ides of March!" There was no raised dagger; and nopolitical bigwig was killed. However, there was someone giving awarning with a symbolically raised dagger of what the future will belike for a prominent politician. So, all in all, this is based looselyon the Julius Caesar moment. Most movies based on plays are talky, talky, talky whereupon thetalking by all actors never stops and you find yourself in la la land.Not this one. In here the dialogues were very smart, quick, to thepoint and honest. All the performers were excellent. And, an Oscarnomination may come out of this for Ryan Gosling, whose idealisticcharacter makes a mistake and then has his eyes opened regarding someof the realities of political life: the lies, deceptions, deals,secrets, bribes, and the rewards and consequences of loyalty issues. I said this was a thriller, but there are no car chases/crashes,explosions, shootings, men chasing other men here and there. No, it's avery good tension thriller and the suspense of what will happen nextwill keep you guessing. The music throughout was excellent, but the music when the credits runis worth a listen. Very good. There is some political stuff by Gov Morris (Clooney) but politicalreviews are not on my agenda.There is a downside. (here we go) The use of F-bombs and other languagethroughout was most distracting and quite unnecessary. Do politicians,reporters, interns, campaign workers really talk that way as much as Iheard in here, and in mixed company? Yes, most movies these days dohave some language to get the R rating, but this was just a little toomuch and took away from an engaging story. Oh, and this may not mean anything, but the movie seems to be tellingus that personal political history (read behavior) constantly repeats.Note the young woman bringing coffee to the staffers in the beginningand the young woman making the same coffee run at the end. Duh! (7/10)Violence: No. Sex: Yes, there is a scene, but you see nothing. Nudity:No. Language: Yes, many F-bombs.

tjsprik (2012-05-13 05:08)

Satisfying cast; unsatisfying story

With all the big names in this movie I was expecting something reallygreat--something well worth the price of two movie tickets.Unfortunately my husband and I were both very disappointed. The storyline is very lacking, and the ending will leave you wanting more. Theacting was superb, and some scenes were very powerful. The first halfof the movie has you wondering what direction the plot is going totake. When the defining moment finally arrives, you expect a dramaticseries of events as the characters twist and turn to make lemonade outof lemons. But there is nothing besides lemons in this offering. Noresolution, no happy ending. If you're looking for a smart, interestingdrama, skip this one.

mikes-movie-review-onlin (2012-05-12 07:25)

"An exceptional political film"

George Clooney's The Ides of March is an intriguing political thriller.Critiquing the corruption of American democracy, The Ides of Marchshows how tiring it really is to run a presidential campaign, whilealluding to the idea that to win, we may need to abandon our personalidealogies. Starring Ryan Gosling, George Clooney, Paul Giametti andPhilip Seymour-Hoffman, The Ides of March is both a thought provokingand entertaining film.Stephen Meyers (Gosling) is the PR guy on a Presdential campaign forSenator Mike Miller (Clooney). He's young, he has experience and abright future, and he brings in the voters. While on campaign in Ohio,Miller's competitor meets with Meyers and offers him a job. The meetingeventually leaks to the press and damages the Senator's chances atwinning the Democratic primary. To make matters more complicated, one of the young women working on the campaign is pregnantwith Miller's child. If word of this gets out it would ruin Miller'sstint as any kind of political candidate. This just goes to show thetwo-facedness of political candidates, as Miller seems in all ways tobet he perfect candidate. He's motivated, he believes in theconstitution, he's likable, he supports strong moral values, he agreesto freedom of speech and action. However, even a guy like Mike Millercan have a seedy underbelly.Meyer's character is a true believer. He knows that Mike Miller is theonly one who will really make a difference in people's lives, and thisdrives him to fight for Miller's campaign. However, Meyer's idealistviews are shattered as he is exposed to the dirty side of politicsduring the film. While trying to determine his role in the system, heworks to quickly mend any problems of Miller's campaign, as if it allfalls apart, Meyer's career will be over. The more senior aids on thecampaign can always get a job consulting in Washington, but the youngMeyers will be hung out to dry if the campaign becomes a PR nightmare.The Ides of March focuses only on a Democratic primary election. Inthis way it doesn't choose sides in any political argument, but insteadappeals to grander themes of politics and democracy than simplypointing the finger at the other party. The feuds which develop,particularly between the Senior Campaign Managers (Seymour-Hoffmann andGiametti) is an interesting one, these two go back a long time but arenot hesitant to burn each other in the public eye. The Ides of Marchprovides us with an interesting development of character. StephenMeyers is perhaps the only central character not realistic at the onsetof the film. As he views more and more of the political truth andscandal behind it, he metamorphoses into a colder realist.Ryan Gosling gives a strong performance as Stephen Meyer the idealistPR guy. Clooney is great as Mike Miller, he is very believable as theintelligent and likable presidential candidate, and when things take aturn for the worse Cloonry displays the moral dilemmas Mike Millerfaces with the deserved integrity and dignity of such a role. Theseperformances, along with the strong writing, are what make The Ides ofMarch an exceptional political film. It focuses on the themes ofpolitics more than the individual stories of campaigners,differentiating it from other political movies. While both realisticand entertaining, it might make viewers think twice about the facevalidity of American politics.

saschakrieger (2012-05-08 15:38)

A chilling and uncompromising political thriller

A young man goes up to a microphone and starts speaking, hardlyaudible. Standard political phrases disintegrating into meaningless blabla and ending in non-verbal noises. There is a certain playfulness tothis, a lack of seriousness. It is, after all, a rehearsal only. Twohours later the same man will be on another stage, sitting upright,staring stone- faced into a camera.There is nothing playful anymore.Between these two scenes lies a story of disillusionment, a study inthe changes circumstances can bring about in a person, a study in thedeformation of character power is known to cause. The Ides of March isan uncompromising, bleak and chilling portrait of the serious businesspolitics have become, of its perpetrators, its victims, of how tosurvive and at what cost.Stephen Meyers (Ryan Gosling) is 30 and he is near the top of hisbusiness. As the number 2 man and media expert in Governor Mike Morris'(George Clooney) presidential campaign, he is as close to real power ashe can be. Unlike Morris' campaign chief (Philip Seymour Hoffman),Stephen cares for more than winning. He is a believer, he trulybelieves in Morris. When approached by the manager of the opponent'scampaign, he shrugs it off. He can only work for something he believesin. This is the first part of the film in which everything seems to beexactly as it appears. Clooney plays the governor as a believable manwho honestly pursues what he believes in. Given the chance to buy aformer opponent's endorsement and with it the nomination, he refuses.There are plots and schemes, but everyone is on the right side.Or are they? Halfway through the film there is a turning point. Itstarts as a small yet dirty secret which can be brushed away just likethat. But it cannot. It shatters the very foundation on which the houseof cards was built. Stephen finds himself in the middle of a tornado oflies and schemes and chooses to play. And so the boyish enthusiastwhose professionalism never stifles his idealistic belief in fightingwhat is good turns into a master schemer which an impenetrable face.Yet on the outside nothing changes: Morris is still the charmingcandidate he was, everything is business as usual. But the same thingthat just seemed honest and genuine now appears hollow andhypocritical. Clooney, the director, masterfully creates the sense of afundamental seachange even though nothing really changes. A lot of thisis due to actor Clooney who excels in absence: even when he's on screenhe's never really there. Morris is an idea, a projection which can meananything. And as circumstances change, the image changes to. He is thefigure in the dark, in shadowy corner as in the film's key scene. He iswhatever people want him to be. And he will be Stephen's role model.The view of politics presented in this film is relentlessly bleak.There is no innocence or rather it is crushed – literally or, as inStephen's case, lured to the dark side. Politics is portrayed as aruthless power struggle in which you can only succeed if you're moreruthless than the others. Some plot twists are too sensational, theoverall picture might have deserved a little grey between the black andthe white and the last 20 minutes feel rushed.But in the end this is a gripping and chilling political thriller whichis strong on turning hardly detectable nuances into gamechangers.Suddenly the atmosphere is turned upside down, heaven becomes hell andwe are left to wonder how it all happened. And in the middle is RyanGosling in a performance that encases all the film's essence in onebody, one face. There was a time when George Clooney was just a prettyface. Those days are long gone.

glennschaefer68 (2012-05-08 03:18)

What I suspect is the way things actually are in politics...

I cannot believe this movie did not get more coverage and more hoopla.I watched this movie with some expectations of it being fairly good,but painting a very similar picture that we have all seen many timesnow. I have to say I was extremely surprised in a very good way. Thisis a very good story with very good actors giving very good actingperformances. I have to admit I/m a fan of Gearge Clooney's acting, butnot his politics - so you can imagine I was more than a little dubiousabout this being a Clooney movie about the political machine. But all Iwant to say is do yourself a favor and watch this movie. It is dynamite- a definite 9 out of 10...Enjoy...

moviemanMA (2012-05-02 23:24)

Watch your back!

The Ides of March is a "grab you by the throat kind" of politicaldrama. I don't want to call it a political thriller like The ManchurianCandidate, but it has certain elements that make you stand on edge(confrontations, secrets revealed, intense dialogue). It stars RyanGosling as Stephen Meyers, a young and talented man who is second incommand on presidential hopeful Mike Morris' (George Clooney) campaignstaff. When he has an unauthorized meeting with the opposing candidatescampaign manager, all hell breaks loose as friendships are tested, newsstories are released, and the worst thing a campaign can buy pokes itsugly head out; a scandal.Along with Gosling and Clooney is Philip Seymour Hoffman as Clooney'shead campaign manager, Paul Giamatti as the opposing manager, MarissaTomei as the news reporter for the Times, and Evan Rachel Wood as theyoung intern who catches the eye of Gosling in more ways than one. Aterrific ensemble cast that pulls off a terrific political drama in apolitical climate that is volatile and overflowing with unethicalbehavior.Gosling continues his dominance on screen. Not just as a heartthrob butas a dramatic force. Not since Paul Newman flashed those baby blue eyeshas there been an actor with such intensity without saying a word.There is an intense scene between Wood and Gosling where with just ONElook Gosling lets the audience know what he is thinking, what he wantsto do, and what he has to do. This performance along with Drive make2011 a really special year for the young actor.Clooney pulls off the rare quadruple crown by acting, directing,writing, and producing. Though not as prominent on screen as Gosling,Clooney's presence is vital to the film, especially towards the end. Injust his fourth film behind the camera, Clooney is building up a prettydecent resumé (Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Good Night and GoodLuck, Leatherheads). He calls on the help of Phedon Papamichael tophotograph (he also photographs Clooney in Alexander Payne's Oscarhopeful The Descendants), who cleverly shows us what the people see andwhat is going on behind the scenes of politics (flipping back and forthnicely between the two). There is a scene where Clooney is giving avery enthusiastic speech in front of a large American flag, meanwhileGosling and Hoffman are having an intense discussion on the reverseside. I saw Clooney on one side speaking of the light side of politicswhile on the other side, in front of an illuminated AND reversedAmerican flag (used on soldiers uniforms in times of war), two mendelving into the darkness of politics. They are the soldiers of war.Clooney is the poster child (literally).There are so many reference to the Obama campaign that are hard toignore like the advertisements, the political messages, the overallfeeling of goodness. I don't think this is in any way shape or form aslant at Obama. No, no, no. I think they are trying to mimic thepolitical climate and using images and ideas we have recently seen. IDO believe this is a huge slap in the face of politics and even alittle jab at the current administration, saying that no matter howhard you try to do good if you want to succeed in Washington, you needto get dirty.There are so many levels to dissect here. It's a story about survival,idealism, morality, politics, and a big reflection on the politicalmachines that are in play in our nation's capital. What we see on TV isClooney's character, Mike Morris. A clean-cut, righteous politician whowants nothing more than to change the ways of government. What we don'tsee are the nasty, backstabbing ways of politics, where one candidate'sagenda doesn't mean squat when it comes to getting elected. There areothers waiting to bring you down or raise you up.Rome wasn't built in a day, and much like Roman politics there arefriends waiting with open arms and knives at the ready.

simona gianotti (2012-05-02 14:21)

A terrific male cast and a strong direction for a crude, tense and captivating drama

A very tense and strong story, more a character study than a politicaldrama, although, quite significantly, the democrat George Clooney showsno pity for a kind of democracy that under the profession of integrityand honesty, very easily gives in to corruption and blackmail. However,the movie appeals more as a Bildungsroman, following, little by little,the gradual moral abasement of the young, smart, passionate Stephen,struggling inside himself, but inexorably falling into decline, underthe perverted seduction of power and prestige. A strong direction,based on a scrutinizing camera, and an essential and incisivescreenplay, never forgetting its theatrical origin, enhance thetalented performances offered by a top-notch cast: Paul Giamatti andPhilip Seymour Hofmann offer a well focused and emotionalinterpretation, as well as the always versatile George Clooney. RyanGosling as Stephen leaves the mark, we perceive his inner change, ormore probably his gradual coming to a previously removed awareness ofwhat he was really aiming at. His facial expressions are intense andemotionally gripping and the last shots on his face prove amazinglychilling. I found the female cast weaker, in the way the innermotivations of Molly and Ida are not well explored, but I also realizedthe movie is above all a titanic struggle between strong male egos, andthis struggle is successfully represented, and greatly acted, as to getcaptivating and deeply involving for the viewer.

aharmas (2012-05-01 10:39)

Almost

Thank God for Ryan Gosling. He instills his work with potent acting.Even in his minimalistic work, we can't look away from something thatwill at least explosive. There's a strong core and unlimited potentialto this young man. Previous works that could have been laughable, evenin the sales pitch stages take a shade of truth when Gosling is in thespotlight. No doubt, Clooney is a star with his looks and smile, and hecan stand his own behind the camera, and we can always rely on Hoffman,Giamatti, and Tomei. The real surprise here is the chemistry betweenEvan Rachel Wood and Gosling. He portrays a character who is ambitious,but still retains much of what gives his character integrity. Suddenlyhe's facing a major political and personal crisis, and he must dealwith the consequences.The film drags at first, but if you give it a chance, you'll be in themiddle some interesting political scheming. Add to that the loss ofinnocence and some wild chess moves. Gosling is caught, pretty muchlike a deer in the headlights; the question is whether he'll be runover, or how much he's willing to move.There is a moment in the film when he's caught in what appears to bedecisively losing situation. Still, thanks to a clever and somehow, notmanipulative script, things don't quite turn out the way we expectthem. There is no mystery here. Things are laid on the table. It'sstill like a game of poker. The winner is the best bluffer, and Clooneymanages to put on a pretty good face, so does Hoffman, and Tomeisizzles in a very short turn, but keep your eye on Gosling...The question here is what is happening to American films lately. In"All The President's Men", the tension and our interest never waned. Itwasn't just the source, but the handling of the material. Even Nicholsmade "Primary Colors" an interesting ride. Let's be clear, just havinggreat soldiers doesn't quite give you an invincible army, we still needa great general, and here we almost got it.

estebangonzalez10 (2012-04-30 23:50)

Ryan Gosling is 3 for 3 in 2011

¨There is only one thing I value in this world and that's loyalty;without it you're nothing! ¨ This is the third 2011 film starring RyanGosling and I must say he does a great job at choosing his rolesbecause all his movies this year were really great. He also has donevery diverse roles, and this time he plays an idealistic mediaconsultant for a presidential candidate who he admires (played byGeorge Clooney). This is a political film that teaches us how thecampaign trail works, but it also has very intense and surprisingmoments. I'm not a fan of political movies, but the actors and thestory make Ides of March a really interesting and entertaining film. Itdoes get the message across of how dirty politics can sometime corrupteven the most idealistic and well intentioned people. Ides of Marchdoes this very well, and it couldn't be any other way consideringGeorge Clooney directed this piece and also contributed with theadaptation of the screenplay. The last time Clooney worked on ascreenplay was in 2005 when he directed the six time Oscar nominatedfilm Good Night and Good Luck. He did a terrific job once again withthe script although he had some help from Beau Willimon who actuallywrote the play in which this film is loosely based, ¨Farragut Night.¨The performances in this film are also great. You can't go wrong whenyou have the talents of George Clooney, Ryan Gosling, Phillip SeymourHoffman, Paul Giamatti, Evan Rachel Wood, and Marisa Tomei. This is anall star cast and the movie would be worth watching for theperformances alone, but the script is also pretty strong so this is oneof the films you won't want to miss this year.Stephen Meyers (Ryan Gosling) is working in the democratic nominationcampaign for presidential candidate Governor Mike Morris (GeorgeClooney) as his media consultant. Stephen is young, but veryexperienced and is the best at his position. Stephen's boss is PaulZara (Phillip Seymour Hoffman) who also is his personal mentor and thecampaign manager. They are currently in the Ohio primaries where therace is tight between Morris and his other democratic rival, SenatorPullman (Michael Mantell). Pullman also has a very smart campaignmanager who is doing his best to keep him in the fight: Tom Duffy (PaulGiamatti). Duffy doesn't always fight clean, he is experienced andknows how dirty politics works. Paul Zara believes the key to winningresides in the endorsement from Senator Thompson (Jeffrey Wright), butPullman's people have made him a very tempting offer which GovernorMike Morris is not willing to counter offer. Morris is idealistic anddoesn't want to buy his way into the Presidential office by makingoffers to senators with whom he doesn't agree. This is one of thethings that Meyers admires about Morris: his honesty and integrity.During the campaign trail Meyers has a relationship with an intern,Molly (Evan Rachel Wood), and soon realizes that not everything is whatit seems. There is a twist that I don't want to give away here, but themovie then takes an unexpected turn. This is where the emotion beginsand the movie picks up from here.Ides of March may start off slow, but it's just a delight to see theseactors work together with a decent story. I wasn't disappointed onebit, and even though I am not into politics I found myself drawn by thestory. I couldn't predict what was going to happen either since themovie takes some interesting turns involving deceptions and dirtypolitics. Even the most idealistic people can be corrupted by thepolitical game and the movie makes its point. Ides of March is reallyworth seeing, even if you're not into politics, because the story isengaging, the performances are great, and George Clooney neverdisappoints as a director. Paul Giamatti and Phillip Seymour Hoffmanare always at their best, and these kinds of roles are where theyexcel. Ryan Gosling has had one of the best years of his life careerwise: Crazy, Stupid Love, Drive, and now Ides of March; they're allgreat films and Gosling gives strong performances in each. My favoritefilm this year so far is Drive, and his performance is just captivatingin that movie. Ides of March is a movie you have to see, you won'tregret it.http://estebueno10.blogspot.com/

akash_sebastian (2012-04-25 16:19)

Average Political Drama! ... could have been much better!

An interesting political drama! (not thriller!)... Good enough, but notGreat.It deals with people and politics, and there are no heroes in the thestory. - That's what I liked about it; it deals with real people. Theamazingly talented bunch of actors - Gosling (what a year!), Clooney,Hoffman, Giamatti, Tomei and Wood - do their job very well and fit intothe shoes quite easily. The story is good, but it could have challengedthe viewers a little more and the characters could have had moredepth...Clooney's direction is admirable.

Gaston Bacquet (2012-04-25 03:08)

Worth it, but funny aftertaste....

It's difficult to write a review about this film. It's so full ofcontradictions (artistic and otherwise) that it leaves you with a funnyaftertaste. The film is about an idealistic young man working as aconsultant for a campaigning politician and the conflicts anddichotomies he has to face if he wants to remain whole and with hisintegrity unbroken. Purely from the filmmaking standpoint, the moviewill remind you of political thrillers of the 70s made by Alan J.Pakula or Sydney Pollack. It's beautifully shot, has a great and veryad-hoc music score, very good performances by everyone involved. Theway the story and main character evolved, however, lacked coherence andat one point I was under the impression I was watching a fragment of adifferent movie. Somehow it went from A to D, skipping B and Caltogether. That alone changed my viewing experience from fullysatisfying to one that, as I said at the beginning, left a funnyaftertaste. The movie is more of a character study than a politicalthriller per se; as the former, it works mainly because of theperformances by actors who are able to convey the inner conflicts theyface. As the latter, don't expect to be taken aback with unpredictabletwists or edge-of-your-seat suspense, because you won't find thosehere. I give it a 7/10.

castala (2012-04-20 09:32)

Expecting better, but still a nice effort

George Clooney is a good actor, and he's becoming a formidabledirector. This movie is fine, but I was expecting some more. Greatdialogues, thrilling scenario, excellent cast. Everything is fine. ButI didn't enjoy the film as much as I was expecting. I just can't findwhat's going wrong in it. The story isn't that surprising. Anyway, it'svery entertaining, and for once, it doesn't last forever, only 95minutes. And it's rolling well. Maybe it's just because we, I meanspectators of my age (49), are used to 3 hours movie on politics. Withan international side story. Here, we just have people who are tryingto save their butt. Maybe that's where is my deception is coming from.It's not a movie about a political candidate, but a thriller based on apersonal default.

Misha Atreides (2012-04-19 19:44)

A maturing Clooney

As cliché' as it sounds, Clooney seems to age like a fine wine. He hassuccessfully shed his image as the ridiculously good looking eternalbachelor of Tinseltown for an aura of respectability. We've seen himgrow over the last three decades from one of the thousands of Hollywoodpretty boys into one of the most politically aware actors of hisgeneration. It doesn't hurt that the man has developed a fine nuancefor understated writing/directing/acting. We've seen shades of it inGood Night, and Good Luck, Syriana and Michael Clayton, but it has comeinto full bloom here.If the original Ides of March carries the image of dying Caesar in thearms of Brutus, here, it shows the loss of innocence of our youngprotagonist, Stephen Meyers, played adeptly by Ryan Gosling.There is a layered realism to the movie, adapted from Beau Willamon'splay Farragut North, leaving even the most politically jaded viewerslike yours truly glued to the travails of the Morris (Clooney)campaign. Ably supported by a plethora of established Hollywoodcharacter actors, including Oscar winners Philip Seymour Hoffman andPaul Giamatti, Clooney and writing partner grant Heslov managed toweave in little twists that will sneak up on you when you least expectit. But a lot were still left unsaid, and part of the challenge ofwatching the movie was deciphering the unspoken words, facialexpressions and body languages of the actors. The intensity andemotions on display, complete with several very close 'close-ups',appeared too raw at times, but absorbing, nonetheless. Verdict: 9/10Is this my favorite movie of the year so far? Oh yes. Will the movie bean Oscar winner? Who knows? Will it be nominated for best picture? Verylikely. Will any of the cast members win a major acting award? You bet.Will Clooney nab his second Oscar? You can put your money on it.