The Better Angels

The Better Angels, released in 2014, is a biographical drama film that depicts the childhood years of the 16th American President, Abraham Lincoln. The movie tells the story of young Abraham Lincoln and his family's hardships in the rugged Indiana wilderness.

The film showcases the life of Lincoln's family, who migrated from Kentucky to Indiana in the early 1800s, including his parents, Thomas and Nancy Lincoln, and his older sister, Sarah. The storyline recounts Lincoln's upbringing and the events that shaped his character and influenced his political ideology and policies.

The movie highlights his early relationship with his mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, who played a vital role in supporting and encouraging his love for learning, his close bond with his sister, and the transformational experiences that accompanied their move from Kentucky to Spencer County, Indiana.

The Better Angels explores the themes of family, education, religion and moral values, hardship, loss and grief, racial divide and abolition, and the power of perseverance and hope amidst adversity.

The film is shot in black and white, enhancing the period appeal and capturing the rustic and raw essence of the 1800s rural America. Director A. J. Edwards has used a unique filmmaking style, combining the slow pace, poetic dialogue, and symbolism that reflect Lincoln's love for literature and self-reflection.

Jason Clarke gives an impressive performance as Thomas Lincoln, Abraham's father, portraying him as a man who struggles to provide for his family, balance his work, and guide his son. Diane Kruger plays Sarah Bush Lincoln, Abraham's step-mother, bringing compassion and warmth to her character, who provides young Abraham with the support he needs.

Brit Marling plays Nancy Hanks Lincoln, Abraham's mother, and gives a heartfelt portrayal of the character as the warmth, kindness, and wisdom of Lincoln's mother shine through her character. Braydon Denney, who played Young Abraham, does a commendable job, portraying the young boy as curious, brave, and, most of all, grounded in his values.

The Better Angels may not be your typical historical biopic, but it certainly leaves a lasting impression on the viewers. The film's narrative is slow-paced, focusing on the subtle, but transformational experiences that Lincoln underwent as a child. The dialogue is poetic, with a beautiful blend of Abraham Lincoln's own words, reflecting his love for literature and his deep-rooted beliefs.

The Better Angels is a beautiful film that captures the essence of the Lincoln family's life in the 1800s while also exploring the core principles that influenced Abraham Lincoln's deep sense of justice and his later political leadership. The film is a heartfelt depiction of a family undergoing hardship and how it shaped one of the most remarkable leaders in American history.

In conclusion, The Better Angels is a beautiful and poignant film that depicts the early years of one of America's most respected and significant leaders. With powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and a poetic narrative, The Better Angels, directed by A. J. Edwards, leaves a lasting impression on its audience. The film provides a captivating glimpse of Abraham Lincoln's life story and, more importantly, the values that shaped his character and leadership.