The Ides of March was a movie dripping politics. From the subject matter, to the dress code, to the way all of the actors conducted themselves; there wasn't a hair out of place, and in the political world that is how you need to look.
**Note: This review is coming from someone who worked for three summers on Capitol Hill for the Senate SAA**
George Clooney is dreamy. The ladies want him, men want to be him. That's just the way it is. Clooney starring as Gov. Mike Morris plays the part very naturally. It might be because he wrote, directed, and produced the movie, that's he's a really good actor, or some combination of the above options.
Ryan Gosling, the lead role as Gov. Morris' head campaign manager at the start of the movie, plays a staff member to a tee. Being around senators and their staff showed me more then one or two interactions between the two. Gosling must have really done his homework. His portrayal of a staffer was spot on, not only as a singular character, but in all his interactions with Evan Rachel Wood's character (a lowly intern) and with Clooney (his boss).
The movie it's self is decent, and has an interesting story, but it felt like Clooney didn't quite know how to end the movie. There is some drama that forces the movie down certain story lines that don't move the overall story along, but that are essential so the audience realizes the kind of stress and pressure these people deal with on the campaign trail.
IMDB.com gives the movie a 7.5 of 10 rating. I feel that's .5 too generous. The movie will not win best picture, but there are some wonderful moments from wonderful actors. Phillip Seymour Hoffman (my favorite actor) plays his part very well, as does Wood, and Paul Giamatti is (like he always is) fabulous in a serious role.
I give Ides of March a 7.0. I would give it a 6.5 but Gov. Morris is running as a Democrat, so I must show respect where it is due.
Go see it and enjoy.
p.s. I tried to avoid Julius Caesar references, it would have been FAR to cliche, I hope you understand.
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