Reviews

This is an A+ film. I had extremely high expectations for it because of the two main men: Robin Williams and Robert De Niro. They definitely did not disappoint! I am often a fan of movies based on either a book or on a true story; I was in for a treat because this one is both!

The film is medically accurate and intriguing without overdramatizing the real-life events. Robin Williams greatly portrays the shy, (clearly) genius, Dr. Sayer. And Robert De Niro does an amazing job of playing a catatonic patient, which I imagine would be amazingly difficult.

I enjoyed how the film shows the audience how the medical field operated during the time period. Currently, in most hospitals, most doctors are unceasingly looking for the answers - the whys and the hows. They will not stop until they know why a patient reacts this way or how a patient ended up this way. In 1969... it was completely different and I appreciate that the film showed how different the world was without making it seem like doctors were barbaric and soulless creatures.

I am far too young to know the Monica Lewinsky/Bill Clinton scandal in detail, however, like most, I am aware of the basics surrounding it. What I found thoroughly enjoyable was the chance to watch the"supporting cast" during the scandal.

Hilary Clinton, as portrayed by Hope Davis, was a pleasure to watch - especially so since she's currently running for President! I truly felt her emotions throughout the film. From steadfast support to shock, to shame and embarrassment - Hope Davis perfectly displayed them all.

The chance to watch the relationship between Tony Blair and Bill Clinton was also immensely captivating. Again, Michael Sheen did an outstanding job of showing the audience Tony Blair's emotions throughout the film.

It wasn't the absolute best adaptation from that time period that I have ever seen, but I believe it is well worth a watch. I greatly appreciated the outstanding performances of the cast as I watched the Clinton/Blair relationship form and evolve during the Lewinsky trial.