Frost/Nixon (2008)

Although I was not alive during Nixon’s presidential term, the effects of his actions can still be felt today.  Whether it was his impeachment hearings or the Vietnam War, any current, negative political act seems to trace back to Nixon’s decisions.  I don’t know how accurate actor Frank Langella’s portrayal of Richard Nixon is, but he captures the presence of a broken and powerful man perfectly.  It’s not the characteristics that he presents that stand out as much as the traits of a man whose ego and strengths were both so big that they led to his ultimate downfall.  Besides for some, I thought, unnecessary setup at the beginning, the brilliance of this film was how it summed up a man’s legacy with interactions with David Frost (Michael Sheen).  Frost isn’t quite as intriguing as Nixon, although he is given just as much screen time, but what shines through is the power of the T.V. interview and that with just the right words, nobody is susceptible to scrutiny.  The dialogue between Frost and Nixon are fascinating.  You can’t help but get into the drama of things although the ending is pretty predictable.  Ron Howard’s direction is solid but a little unforgettable due to the fact that Langella’s performance carries the film.  His version of the flawed man makes the whole thing worth watching and will make you forever ponder what has and will drive America’s presidential leaders of both the past and the future.  I give Frost/Nixon 4 out of 5 Italian shoes.