Jan 12 2009
Monday’s Movie - Swing Vote
A Novel Menagerie has started a new meme called Monday’s Movie. I know I mostly post about books, but the title of my blog is Books and Movies, so thought I’d take part.
In the trailers, Swing Vote was made to look like a political satire. Don’t get me wrong, it has elements of political satire in it, but this is really a father-daughter movie.
Kevin Costner stars as Bud, and Madeline Carroll is his daughter, Molly. Bud is an all-around slacker and Molly is the responsible one in their relationship, taking care of both Bud and herself. When Election Day rolls around, Molly wants Bud to care about something besides himself. She takes matters into her own hands, which sets events in motion so that the entire presidential election comes down to one vote - Bud’s.
The media descend upon Bud and Molly, and the presidential candidates court Bud with beer and fishing, changing their policies based on every off-hand remark that passes Bud’s lips. Meanwhile, Molly is reading the letters sent to Bud from regular people who see him as their one chance to have a voice in the election.
While this movie did have some funny and true and sad things to say about the American political process, it is mostly about the relationship between Bud and Molly, and the question of whether Bud can be the kind of father who will make the intelligent, motivated Molly proud.
Costner was perfect as the red-neck slacker Bud, but Madeline Carroll stole the film - she is a brilliant young actress and has quite the future ahead of her. I enjoyed this movie a lot more than I expected to, which was a pleasant surprise. 4 out of 5 bags of popcorn.
I have been really wanting to see this movie! Thanks so much for reviewing it. I’m going to rent it!
Sheri - You’re welcome - it’s really a good flick.
I passed this rental by. Movies are like books…too many great ones to spend time on mediocrity. So I am surprised at your rating…gonna have to give it a second chance!
Hi Carrie, I saw this movie was coming out on DVD and I’m looking forward to seeing it. I’ve always kind of liked Kevin Costner, but it’s weird, I either can’t stand or love his movies. I like him best in movies that sound like this one, where it is more about relationships that anything too all encompassing. Thanks for the review. I’m looking forward to checking out your blog!
Sandy - I was surprised, too - I thought it would be just okay, but I ended up really enjoying it.
Margo - Thanks! I hope I haven’t steered you wrong, and you like it.
I loved this movie. I wasn’t too sure when I went and saw it, but I’m glad I did. I totally agree about it being more of a father-daugther film than a political one. I absolutely adored Madeline. She really is an excellent actress.
I wanted to let you know too that on my blog, you can enter a huge giveaway for the new USA show Royal Pains. I saw the pilot and it’s great, and I wanted you to know if you wanted to enter it or anything.
-Lauren