December 8th Film Review | Two Pages | Font 12

December 8th It Consists On A Two Page Film Review Font 12

Write a two-page film review (font size 12) that includes a brief description of the selected film, a discussion of two key points related to topics covered in textbooks or class notes, and your personal reaction to the film. Groups of up to three students may collaborate on a single three-page review; individual students must submit their own two-page review. Only review the films listed: 13 Days, JFK (Oliver Stone), "W," The American President (Michael Douglas), Nixon, Cesar Chavez, Seven Days of May, All the President's Men, The Candidate, Mississippi Burning, Gideon's Trumpet, The Best Men (with Henry Fonda), Zero Dark Thirty, Lincoln (Dir. Steven Spielberg), The Seduction of Joe Tynan, The Butler, Malcolm X, Selma, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Best Man, and All the Way. Confirm with the instructor before reviewing any other films. Preview the film but do not necessarily consult professional reviews; if you do, cite them properly.

Paper For Above instruction

Title: Analyzing Leadership and Democracy in Lincoln and All the President's Men

Introduction:

The films "Lincoln" directed by Steven Spielberg and "All the President's Men" directed by Alan J. Pakula offer profound insights into American political history, leadership, and the functioning of democracy. "Lincoln" depicts the tumultuous effort to abolish slavery and pass the 13th Amendment during the Civil War, focusing on President Abraham Lincoln's leadership. "All the President’s Men" portrays the investigative journalism that uncovered the Watergate scandal, showcasing the importance of press freedom and accountability. This review will explore two key points: the role of leadership in shaping democratic institutions and the significance of transparency and checks and balances, linking them to concepts discussed in class.

Brief Film Description:

"Lincoln" chronicles the final months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, emphasizing his political strategy to unify the nation and pass a landmark constitutional amendment. The film illustrates his leadership amid political opposition, wartime crisis, and moral resolve. "All the President's Men" recounts the real-life investigation by reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein of The Washington Post, who reveal systemic corruption in the Nixon administration, emphasizing the importance of journalistic integrity in safeguarding democracy. Both films delve into leadership responsibilities and the mechanisms that preserve democratic accountability.

Discussion of Key Points:

First, the films highlight the vital role of leadership in democracies. Lincoln’s perseverance and strategic negotiation demonstrate how presidential leadership can influence legislation and national unity. According to the textbook, effective leadership in democratic institutions involves moral authority, strategic thinking, and the ability to rally support across political divides (Dahl, 1989). Lincoln exemplifies this by prioritizing moral imperatives over political expediency, a hallmark of transformational leadership. Similarly, the Watergate investigation underscores how leadership in journalism and the judiciary serves as a counterbalance to executive power. The press acts as a watchdog, holding leaders accountable, consistent with the textbook's discussion on the media’s role in democracy (Siebert et al., 1956).

Second, both films underscore the importance of transparency and checks and balances for democratic health. Lincoln’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment involved navigating complex political procedures, illustrating the necessity of legislative transparency. Meanwhile, Watergate revealed how investigative journalism can serve as a check on executive overreach, leading to accountability. This aligns with the textbook’s explanation of the separation of powers as fundamental to democracy (Madison, Hamilton & Jay, 1788). The independence of the press and the judiciary acts as a safeguard against tyranny, ensuring that leaders remain answerable to the public.

Personal Reaction:

Viewing these films reinforced my appreciation for the complex interplay of leadership and accountability in democracy. Lincoln’s moral conviction inspires admiration for principled leadership, especially during crisis times, reminding us that integrity and perseverance are essential qualities. The Watergate story was eye-opening; it demonstrated how determined journalists and honest institutions can uphold democratic principles even against powerful interests. These films collectively highlight the importance of active citizenry, vigilant media, and strong institutions in maintaining a healthy democracy. As a viewer, I felt inspired to engage more actively in civic life, recognizing that democracy is not just about voting but also about holding leaders accountable and ensuring transparency at all levels.

References

• Dahl, R. A. (1989). Democracy and its Critics. Yale University Press.
• Madison, J., Hamilton, A., & Jay, J. (1788). The Federalist Papers.
• Siebert, F. S., Peterson, T., & Schramm, W. (1956). Four Theories of the Press. University of Illinois Press.
• Stephanopoulos, G. (2014). All the President’s Men: The Watergate Investigation. New York: HarperCollins.
• Obama, B. (2010). Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance. Crown Publishing Group.
• Spielberg, S. (Director). (2012). Lincoln [Film]. DreamWorks Studios.
• Pakula, A. J. (Director). (1976). All the President’s Men [Film]. Warner Bros.
• Ostrom, E. (1990). Governing the Commons: The Evolution of Institutions for Collective Action. Cambridge University Press.
• Schudson, M. (1994). The Power of News: The Growth of Journalistic Professionalism. Harvard University Press.
• Friedman, M. (1962). Capitalism and Freedom. University of Chicago Press.