To truly watch Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln is to immerse yourself in the film’s meticulously crafted historical drama, paying attention not only to the plot unfolding on screen but also to the nuanced performances, historical accuracy, and artistic choices that elevate it to a cinematic and educational experience. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and perspective needed to fully appreciate this powerful film.
Preparing for the Experience: More Than Just Pressing Play
Watching Lincoln isn’t simply about sitting down and passively observing the images. It’s about engaging with a complex historical period and a pivotal moment in American history. Preparation can dramatically enhance your viewing experience.
Understanding the Context
Before pressing play, consider brushing up on your understanding of the historical context. The film primarily focuses on the final months of the Civil War and the frantic political maneuvering surrounding the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, abolishing slavery.
- Research Key Figures: Familiarize yourself with individuals like Thaddeus Stevens, Secretary of State William Seward, and prominent abolitionists like Frederick Douglass. Understanding their motivations and roles in the historical narrative will enrich your understanding of their portrayals in the film.
- The Thirteenth Amendment: Understand the importance of the Thirteenth Amendment. It wasn’t just about freeing slaves; it was about fundamentally changing the social and political fabric of the nation. Knowing the arguments for and against its passage will help you appreciate the stakes involved.
- The Political Climate: Understand the deeply divided political landscape of the time. Lincoln faced opposition not only from the Confederacy but also from factions within his own Republican party.
Choosing Your Viewing Environment
The viewing environment also plays a crucial role.
- Minimize Distractions: Find a quiet space where you can focus without interruptions.
- Optimal Viewing Setup: Use the best possible screen and sound system available to you. Spielberg’s films are designed to be seen and heard in a way that immerses the viewer.
- Consider Subtitles: While the dialogue is generally clear, subtitles can be helpful, especially given the accents and historical language used.
During the Film: Active Engagement is Key
Passive viewing won’t do justice to the richness of Lincoln. Be an active participant in the cinematic experience.
Pay Attention to the Details
Spielberg and his team meticulously recreated the atmosphere of the 1860s.
- Costume and Set Design: Notice the details in the costumes, sets, and props. These elements contribute significantly to the film’s authenticity.
- Daniel Day-Lewis’s Performance: Observe Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal of Lincoln. His performance is widely regarded as one of the greatest in cinematic history, and paying attention to his mannerisms, voice, and expressions will reveal the depth of his interpretation.
- John Williams’s Score: Listen to John Williams’s evocative score, which underscores the emotional weight of the scenes and enhances the overall impact of the film.
Analyzing the Narrative
Lincoln is more than just a historical re-enactment; it’s a compelling story about leadership, compromise, and moral courage.
- Lincoln’s Strategies: Analyze Lincoln’s political strategies. How does he navigate the complex political landscape to achieve his goals? What compromises is he willing to make?
- The Moral Dilemmas: Consider the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Is it ever justifiable to compromise one’s principles for the greater good?
- The Themes of Unity and Reconciliation: Reflect on the film’s exploration of themes like unity, reconciliation, and the challenges of building a more just society.
After the Film: Continuing the Exploration
The viewing experience doesn’t end when the credits roll. Continue your exploration of Lincoln through further research and discussion.
Researching Historical Accuracy
While Lincoln is generally considered historically accurate, it’s important to remember that it’s still a work of fiction.
- Compare to Historical Accounts: Compare the film’s portrayal of events and characters to historical accounts from reputable sources.
- Identify Fictionalized Elements: Be aware of any fictionalized elements that were introduced for dramatic effect.
- Consult Scholarly Articles: Read scholarly articles and books about Lincoln and the Civil War era to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context.
Discussing the Film
- Engage in Conversations: Discuss the film with friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing your thoughts and perspectives can lead to a richer understanding of the film’s themes and messages.
- Join Online Forums: Participate in online forums and discussions about Lincoln. This can provide you with access to a wider range of perspectives and insights.
- Read Reviews and Analyses: Read reviews and analyses of the film from reputable critics and historians.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Watching Lincoln
FAQ 1: Where can I stream or rent Lincoln?
Lincoln is typically available to stream on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, and Vudu, depending on your region. You can also often rent or purchase it digitally through these same platforms. Check your local listings for availability.
FAQ 2: Is Lincoln suitable for children?
While Lincoln is a valuable educational film, it contains mature themes, including violence and political intrigue. It’s generally recommended for teenagers and older audiences. Parental guidance is advised for younger viewers. The film depicts the Civil War era, which includes discussions and scenes involving slavery and death.
FAQ 3: How historically accurate is Lincoln?
Lincoln is considered relatively historically accurate, particularly in its depiction of the political maneuvering surrounding the Thirteenth Amendment. However, some artistic liberties were taken for dramatic effect, such as the portrayal of Thaddeus Stevens’s relationship with his housekeeper, Lydia Hamilton Smith, which is debated by historians.
FAQ 4: What is the significance of the ending of Lincoln?
The ending, depicting Lincoln’s assassination, serves to highlight the fragility of peace and the immense loss the nation suffered. It also underscores the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. The final shot, showing Lincoln watching the play, is a poignant reminder of his humanity.
FAQ 5: What are some good books to read after watching Lincoln?
Several books offer valuable insights into Lincoln and the Civil War era. “Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln” by Doris Kearns Goodwin provides a comprehensive overview of Lincoln’s leadership style. “Lincoln” by David Herbert Donald is a definitive biography. For a deeper understanding of the Thirteenth Amendment, consider “The Passage of Power: Five Days in May” by Robert Caro.
FAQ 6: Who were some of the real-life figures depicted in the film?
Key figures include Abraham Lincoln (Daniel Day-Lewis), Secretary of State William Seward (David Strathairn), Congressman Thaddeus Stevens (Tommy Lee Jones), Mary Todd Lincoln (Sally Field), Robert Todd Lincoln (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), and General Ulysses S. Grant (Jared Harris). The film also features numerous other historical figures in supporting roles.
FAQ 7: What are some key scenes that showcase Lincoln’s leadership?
Key scenes include Lincoln’s interactions with his cabinet, his debates with Thaddeus Stevens, his meetings with the “vote brokers,” and his private conversations with his wife and son. These scenes reveal his strategic thinking, his ability to persuade and compromise, and his deep moral convictions.
FAQ 8: What is the significance of the “Euclid” scene?
The scene where Lincoln quotes Euclid to his cabinet is a powerful illustration of his reasoning and persuasive skills. He uses the geometric principle to explain the importance of equality and the impossibility of denying it to one group while maintaining it for others.
FAQ 9: How did Steven Spielberg approach directing Lincoln?
Spielberg aimed for historical accuracy and a nuanced portrayal of Lincoln’s character. He relied on extensive research and worked closely with historians to ensure the film’s authenticity. He also focused on capturing the political and social atmosphere of the time.
FAQ 10: What is the significance of the play “Our American Cousin” in the film?
“Our American Cousin” was the play Lincoln was watching at Ford’s Theatre when he was assassinated. The film uses it to create a sense of dramatic irony and to highlight the tragedy of Lincoln’s untimely death.
FAQ 11: How does Lincoln portray the issue of race and slavery?
Lincoln portrays the issue of race and slavery as the central moral and political conflict of the Civil War era. The film highlights the brutality of slavery and the struggle for emancipation, while also acknowledging the complexities and prejudices of the time.
FAQ 12: What makes Daniel Day-Lewis’s portrayal of Lincoln so compelling?
Day-Lewis’s dedication to the role, including his meticulous research, his physical transformation, and his mastery of Lincoln’s voice and mannerisms, created a truly believable and unforgettable portrayal. He captured Lincoln’s quiet strength, his intellectual depth, and his deep compassion.