Primary Colors, Mike Nichols, Joe Klein, American politics, Bill Clinton, Monica Gate, Cannes festival, Henry Burton, idealism, presidential campaign, Jack Stanton
In January 1996 the journalist and moderate columnist Joe Klein anonymously published a book which was entitled Primary Colors. Quickly, the novel knew a great success and became a best-seller: it spent 9 weeks as number one on the New York Times bestseller list. So it's one of the most popular political books in the USA.
[...] This is a real mark of honor for the movie naturally titled . Primary Colors. And at the same time it is a recognition of the movie by the professionals of the cinema industry. This Cannes film festival chaired by Martin Scorsese seemed this year again revealing a lot of interesting movies. The movie "la vita e bella" can sum up the quality of the festival. The story But coming back to Primary Colors. This movie created a surprise as it turned into the actuality of the American president. [...]
[...] It deals with a man, Henry Burton (played by Adrian Lester), a young black idealist, who has worked with Congressman William Larkin for six years. He had noble values and really believed in a neat and honest politic. With this aim he wants to support the politician who is as close as possible of his opinions. Consequently he makes the choice of Jack Stanton (played by John Travolta) a southern governor. Henry becomes his campaign manager. At first sight Jack Stanton can seem condescending, but in fact he has real human qualities. He tries to be close to his electors. [...]
[...] How contrast the shams which are essential for an electoral campaign, and the honesty of conviction? Nevertheless what about Susan? This perfect wife has noble values and will do everything to serve her husband's career. This movie makes us reflect. We can just regret one thing: it never speaks about the financing of political parties. Why? Uninteresting or too shameful to mention? To sum up Primary Colors is an interesting movie which merits our attention. Seeing it is strongly recommended. [...]
[...] In other words, Primary Colors show a President Clinton who emerges. This satyr, although it's light, explains more the making of an ideal American president than a criticism of the American political system. Some scenes stay unforgettable such as the beginning of the movie with handshakes and their different meanings. What followed with the visit in Harlem of people who follow an adult literacy program is revealing of the tone of the movie. Stanton has the courage of his emotions and doesn't hold back his tears when he hears the speech Dewayne Smith, a dyslexic. [...]
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