The Candidate

Directed by Michael Ritchie and released in 1972, The Candidate is a political drama with a stirring narrative that perfectly encapsulates the whirlwind world of American politics. The film showcases stellar performances by Hollywood legends Robert Redford, Peter Boyle, and Melvyn Douglas and presents a probing critique of the contemporary democratic process.

Robert Redford, known for his charming, magnetic charisma, takes on the demanding role of Bill McKay, an idealistic lawyer from California. Despite having no political background nor a particular desire to venture into politics, McKay is the son of a revered former governor, John J. McKay, brought to life by the brilliant acting skills of Melvyn Douglas. With his strong values and an ethical commitment to fight for the common man, Bill McKay embodies an appealing, everyman quality that resonates with audiences.

Enlisted by Marvin Lucas (Peter Boyle), an astute and seasoned kingmaker, McKay becomes an unexpected challenger in the US Senate race. Lucas convinces McKay to run against the highly favored incumbent senator, by promising him that he would have a free rein over his campaign. As a novice in the ruthless world of politics, he is initially allowed to run a campaign fueled by honest views, standing for matters he truly believes in, instead of conforming to mass opinion.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of an intense political campaign, the story unfolds with a series of striking, sometimes satirical situations that highlight the compromises, manoeuvrings, and strategic games inherent in politics. Viewers are introduced to how political machines function behind the scenes, the role of media in image crafting, and how eventually substance often gets overshadowed by style.

As the election day approaches closer, McKay almost becomes a pawn in the hands of skilled campaign managers, obsessively committed to winning. This process brings out the stark contrast between his personal convictions and the demands of a political life. Redford brilliantly portrays his transformation from an idealist, reluctant candidate to a seasoned, competitive player fitting into the political narrative expected of him.

The supporting characters, particularly Peter Boyle as the crafty, seasoned political consultant, and Melvyn Douglas as the ex-governor father whose shadow his son initially shies away from, greatly contribute to the credible political backdrop. They effectively depict the reality of the strategizing, compromises, and manipulations that occur within the political landscape.

The screenplay by Jeremy Larner, a former political speechwriter, is laden with nuanced perspectives and moments of witty satire, providing an underlying commentary on the dubious political systems. Noteworthy is the work of director Michael Ritchie, who suffuses the film with a documentary-like realism that mirrors the intensity and chaos of the political atmosphere, making it an engaging cinematic experience.

The Candidate is punctuated with memorable scenes, including some lively debate sequences that significantly enhance the drama in the film. The refreshing honesty displayed by the titular candidate, contrasted with his later metamorphosis, explores the human cost of political success. The evolution of Bill McKay during his political journey forms the crux of the film.

From the onset to the climax, the film keeps you hooked with its engaging narrative, stellar performances, and thought-provoking scenarios. The Candidate's reflection on politics and its influence on the personal life of an individual remain relevant today as it was almost five decades ago.

In conclusion, The Candidate from 1972 brilliantly captures the essence of political campaigns and the apparatus that drives it. A showcase of strong performances specifically from Robert Redford, the film offers viewers an opportunity to critically examine the political system and question the extent individuals are willing to go in their quest for power. The movie might be set in the past, but its underlying questions resonate even today, making it a must-watch for those intrigued by the world of politics.