Lincoln (2012)

Detailed Summary

The Civil War and Lincoln’s Determination

Set in 1865, during the final months of the American Civil War, Lincoln focuses on President Abraham Lincoln’s (Daniel Day-Lewis) efforts to pass the 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution, which would formally abolish slavery. Lincoln understands that ending slavery is crucial, not only morally but for the nation’s future unity.

The Political Struggles in the House of Representatives

The film’s central tension revolves around Lincoln’s strategic maneuvering to secure the necessary votes in the House of Representatives. He faces resistance from various factions, including members of his own Republican Party, conservative Democrats, and the Confederacy, which is still trying to negotiate peace without giving up slavery.

Lincoln’s Inner Conflicts and Family Dynamics

While balancing national duties, Lincoln is depicted as a man grappling with personal turmoil. His relationship with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (Sally Field), is strained, particularly over the loss of their son and the ongoing war. Lincoln also struggles with his son Robert’s (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) desire to enlist in the Union Army, against his mother’s wishes.

The Battle for Votes

A significant portion of the movie focuses on the backroom deals, persuasion tactics, and outright arm-twisting employed by Lincoln’s team, led by Secretary of State William Seward (David Strathairn). Thaddeus Stevens (Tommy Lee Jones), a radical Republican, plays a crucial role, but he must moderate his strong abolitionist rhetoric to appeal to more conservative lawmakers.

The Amendment’s Passage and Lincoln’s Victory

After intense debate and political wrangling, the 13th Amendment is passed by a narrow margin in the House of Representatives. The victory is bittersweet, as Lincoln knows the war still rages on, but it’s a decisive step toward the nation’s healing.

The Assassination and Legacy

The film ends with Lincoln’s assassination at Ford’s Theatre, depicted in a solemn and understated manner. The closing scenes show the enduring impact of his leadership and vision for America.

Movie Ending

Lincoln concludes with the successful passage of the 13th Amendment, followed by a glimpse of Lincoln’s tragic assassination. The movie reflects on Lincoln’s legacy, emphasizing how his dedication to ending slavery and preserving the Union shaped American history.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, Lincoln does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

This film is a historical drama, centered on political strategy, moral dilemmas, and the human cost of leadership. It’s a biographical depiction with a focus on Lincoln’s final months and his efforts to secure lasting change.

Cast

• Daniel Day-Lewis as Abraham Lincoln
• Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln
• Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens
• Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Robert Todd Lincoln
• David Strathairn as William Seward
• James Spader as W.N. Bilbo
• Hal Holbrook as Preston Blair

Film Music and Composer

John Williams composed the score, enhancing the film’s solemn and historic tone with his music. His compositions amplify crucial scenes, bringing greater emotional impact to the political drama.

Filming Locations

• Richmond, Virginia: Many of the scenes depicting Washington, D.C., were shot here.
• Petersburg, Virginia: Provided historic settings for battlefields and other key locations.

These locations were chosen to evoke the period authenticity essential to the film’s historical narrative.

Awards and Nominations

• Academy Awards: Won Best Actor (Daniel Day-Lewis) and Best Production Design. Nominated for 12 Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director.
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Actor (Daniel Day-Lewis).
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Actor (Daniel Day-Lewis), nominated for several others.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Daniel Day-Lewis stayed in character as Lincoln throughout filming, even using the same voice and mannerisms off-camera.
• The script was based on the book Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin, and screenwriter Tony Kushner conducted extensive research.
• Spielberg and his team meticulously recreated Lincoln’s physical appearance, down to his height and the texture of his skin.

Inspirations and References

• Source Material: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
• Historical References: The film is rooted deeply in historical events, focusing on the political complexities of passing the 13th Amendment.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

Spielberg and his team maintained a clear vision for the film’s narrative, resulting in a focused and tight final cut of Lincoln. No significant alternate endings or deleted scenes have been revealed.

Book Adaptations and Differences

• The film draws from Team of Rivals but zeroes in on a more specific timeframe, primarily highlighting the struggle to pass the 13th Amendment. In contrast, the book spans Lincoln’s entire presidency and his interactions with his cabinet.
• The film streamlines complex historical events to maintain a more coherent and engaging narrative.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The House Vote: The tense, dramatic vote on the 13th Amendment is the film’s emotional climax.
• Lincoln’s Monologues: Several of Lincoln’s speeches, filled with humor, wisdom, and resolve, showcase Day-Lewis’s performance.
• Thaddeus Stevens’ Speech: Stevens’ powerful, moderated speech in favor of the amendment is a key moment of compromise and strategy.

Iconic Quotes

• “Do we choose to be born, or are we fitted to the times we’re born into?” – Abraham Lincoln
• “I am the president of the United States, clothed in immense power!” – Abraham Lincoln
• “The greatest measure of the nineteenth century was passed by corruption, aided and abetted by the purest man in America.” – Thaddeus Stevens

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film uses actual quotes from Lincoln’s letters and speeches, adding historical authenticity.
• The depiction of Lincoln’s voice is based on contemporary accounts that describe his tone as high-pitched and slightly nasal, contrary to the deep, commanding voice often imagined.

Trivia

• Daniel Day-Lewis was the first actor to win three Academy Awards for Best Actor with his performance in Lincoln.
• The production team prioritized historical accuracy by recreating the White House sets using archival photographs and documents as references.

Why Watch?

Lincoln is a masterclass in acting, political drama, and historical storytelling. It offers insight into a critical moment in American history while exploring timeless themes of leadership, morality, and perseverance.

Director’s Other Movies

• Schindler’s List (1993)
• Saving Private Ryan (1998)
• Munich (2005)
• The Post (2017)
• West Side Story (2021)

Recommended Films for Fans

• 12 Years a Slave (2013)
• The King’s Speech (2010)
• Amistad (1997)
• Darkest Hour (2017)
• JFK (1991)