The Candidate (1972) Review in 2025
A young politician's journey to the top, exploring the darker side of ambition and the American Dream.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
A must-watch for fans of politics, drama, and character-driven storytelling. Highly recommended for its thought-provoking themes and outstanding performances.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows Bill McKay, a young and charismatic senatorial candidate who runs for office as a Democrat in a conservative state. As he gains momentum, he must confront the harsh realities of politics and the true cost of his ambition.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, exploring the complexities of politics and the human condition. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of humor and drama that keeps the viewer invested.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Robert Redford delivering a tour-de-force performance as Bill McKay. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Peter Boyle and Melvyn Douglas.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Robert Redford delivering a standout performance as the charismatic but flawed Bill McKay. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with notable performances from Peter Boyle and Melvyn Douglas.
direction9.00/10
Michael Ritchie's direction is masterful, balancing the tone and pace of the film with ease. He expertly captures the essence of the characters and the world they inhabit, creating a rich and immersive cinematic experience.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is solid, with a mix of natural lighting and clever camera work that adds to the film's overall atmosphere. However, it's not particularly noteworthy, and some scenes feel a bit static.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, well-developed characters, outstanding performances, and thought-provoking themes.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit static, and the cinematography is not particularly noteworthy.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a politician, I'm a candidate."
"I'm not interested in winning, I'm interested in losing."
"The American people are a lot smarter than the politicians give them credit for."
