Movies Like Lincoln: A Historical Journey
Movies have the unique ability to transport us to different eras and immerse us in captivating stories. One such movie that captivated audiences with its historical narrative is “Lincoln,” directed by Steven Spielberg. Released in 2012, this critically acclaimed film takes us on a journey through the final months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and his relentless efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment.
If you enjoyed “Lincoln” and are eager to explore more movies that delve into historical events and figures, here are five recommendations that are sure to captivate you:
1. “Schindler’s List” (1993): Directed by Steven Spielberg, this Academy Award-winning movie is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over a thousand Polish Jews during the Holocaust. Like “Lincoln,” this film showcases the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in positions of power during times of great adversity.
2. “Gandhi” (1982): This epic biographical drama directed by Richard Attenborough chronicles the life of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, an influential leader in India’s fight for independence from British rule. Like “Lincoln,” this film explores the challenges faced by a leader in a divided nation, highlighting the power of nonviolent resistance.
3. “12 Years a Slave” (2013): Directed by Steve McQueen, this powerful film is based on the memoir of Solomon Northup, a free African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 19th century. Similar to “Lincoln,” this movie shines a light on the struggles faced by those fighting for freedom and equality during a tumultuous period in American history.
4. “The King’s Speech” (2010): Directed by Tom Hooper, this historical drama tells the story of King George VI of the United Kingdom, who overcame a severe stammer with the help of a speech therapist. Like “Lincoln,” this film explores the personal challenges faced by a leader and emphasizes the importance of effective communication during times of crisis.
5. “Selma” (2014): Directed by Ava DuVernay, this gripping historical drama focuses on the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Like “Lincoln,” this movie highlights the courage and determination of individuals fighting for justice and equality, shedding light on the struggles faced by African Americans during the civil rights movement.
Unique Facts:
1. “Lincoln” received critical acclaim and was nominated for twelve Academy Awards, ultimately winning two: Best Actor for Daniel Day-Lewis and Best Production Design.
2. Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in “Lincoln” was so immersive that he remained in character both on and off set, even speaking in Lincoln’s voice during breaks.
3. Sally Field, who played Mary Todd Lincoln in the film, is a distant relative of the real Mary Todd Lincoln. This familial connection added an extra layer of personal investment for Field in her portrayal of the character.
4. The film’s screenplay was written by Tony Kushner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright known for his work on the play “Angels in America.”
5. “Lincoln” was praised for its attention to historical accuracy, with meticulous efforts made to recreate the costumes, sets, and overall atmosphere of the time period.
FAQs:
1. Is “Lincoln” based on true events?
Yes, “Lincoln” is based on historical events surrounding the final months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and his fight to pass the Thirteenth Amendment.
2. Did Abraham Lincoln really speak like that?
While there is no definitive evidence of how Abraham Lincoln spoke, historians believe that Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal in “Lincoln” was a close approximation based on historical accounts.
3. Are there any other movies about Abraham Lincoln?
Yes, there are several movies about Abraham Lincoln, including “Young Mr. Lincoln” (1939), “Abe Lincoln in Illinois” (1940), and “The Conspirator” (2010).
4. Why is “Lincoln” considered a significant film?
“Lincoln” is considered significant because it sheds light on an important period in American history and portrays the complexities of leadership and political maneuvering during a time of great division.
5. Is “Lincoln” suitable for all audiences?
While “Lincoln” is generally suitable for mature audiences, parents should consider the film’s intense themes and historical context before allowing younger viewers to watch it.
6. How accurate is the portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln in the film?
While some artistic liberties may have been taken, Sally Field’s portrayal of Mary Todd Lincoln in “Lincoln” is generally regarded as a credible representation of the historical figure.
7. Did “Lincoln” win any awards?
Yes, “Lincoln” won two Academy Awards: Best Actor for Daniel Day-Lewis and Best Production Design.
8. Can I watch “Lincoln” on any streaming platforms?
“Lincoln” is available to stream on various platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
9. Is “Lincoln” a fast-paced movie?
“Lincoln” is a dialogue-driven film that focuses on the intricacies of politics and decision-making, so it may not be considered fast-paced in terms of action.
10. Can “Lincoln” be used as an educational resource?
Yes, “Lincoln” can be a valuable educational resource for learning about American history, politics, and leadership.
11. Are there any deleted scenes from “Lincoln”?
Yes, there are several deleted scenes from “Lincoln,” some of which can be found on the film’s Blu-ray and DVD releases.
12. Did “Lincoln” spark any controversies?
While “Lincoln” was generally well-received, some historians and critics raised concerns about the portrayal of certain characters and events.
13. Are there any books on which “Lincoln” is based?
“Lincoln” was not directly based on a single book, but it drew inspiration from various sources, including Doris Kearns Goodwin’s “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln.”
14. How long is the runtime of “Lincoln”?
“Lincoln” has a runtime of approximately 150 minutes.
15. Is “Lincoln” a standalone film or part of a series?
“Lincoln” is a standalone film that tells a complete story about a specific period in Abraham Lincoln’s life.
