Lincoln

[Lost hero]

Review



Movie 4.5
Video 5.0
Audio 5.0
Extras 2.5
Overall 4.5

Lincoln resonates for a number of reasons, none perhaps more so than this: at a time of unease, uncertainty, partisan bickering and unyielding filibustering in American politics, Spielberg and Kushner's blend of shrewd realism and principled idealism suggests all is not lost; that democracy is greater than those who would exploit its freedoms or stall its progress; that men and women of conviction will prevail, and that the will of the people and the common good will be their guide. Overly idealistic? Maybe. Still, cynicism accomplishes very little, and Lincoln stands apart from the overwhelmingly cynical political dramas that litter the market. The craft of the film and the quality of its direction, screenplay and performances make it all that much more mesmerizing, not to mention that much more effective. It may not be perfect, but it wholeheartedly believes in something that just might be. Disney's AV presentation is perfect, though, backed by a stunning, top tier video transfer and an outstanding DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 surround track. Its supplemental package could use some work -- the 4-disc combo and its second disc of special features still only deliver 80-minutes of bonus content -- but it's by no means a deal breaker. Easily one of the best films of 2012, Lincoln is a quiet, powerful and, yes, important period drama as worthy of praise as its critically hailed lead performance.