And the Best Picture goes to....

The film is based loosely on the life of Louisiana Governor Huey Long and I initially thought I would enjoy it more than I did. While it features an interesting plot and story, the pacing felt uneven, resembling a see-saw. It started out strongly with powerful dialogue and impassioned speeches but then experienced a lull in the second act. Although the film picked up again, it encountered another slow period before reaching its conclusion.

What stood out to me were the strong performances from three actors in particular. The lead, Broderick Crawford, delivered a gruff yet eloquent portrayal. His character captivates the citizens of his state with passionate speeches to win their votes, which also endears him to the viewer as an underdog. As the film progresses, we witness his evolution from idealism to a willingness to use blackmail, graft, and intimidation to ascend to the governorship.  Mercedes McCambridge, in her screen debut, steals many scenes as a cynical and hard-edged political aide. She not only covers up her candidate’s shadowy methods and dishonesty but also develops feelings for him.

While both Crawford and McCambridge won Oscars for their performances, Anne Seymour, who portrayed Willy Stark’s long-suffering wife, Lucy, did not receive a nomination, even though I believe hers was the standout performance. Unlike Lady Macbeth, who shares her husband’s thirst for power, Lucy supports Willy simply out of love. At the beginning of the film, she is infatuated with her idealistic husband, helping him with his law studies and campaigning alongside him. Despite enduring his various indiscretions and caring for an invalid son, she remains steadfast by his side whenever needed.

Overall, the film features wonderful actors, but the slow pace of the plot detracts from what could have been a timeless tale of corrupt politics.