Miss Sloane

Jessica Chastain is Elizabath Sloane, a big time lobbyist who has everyone in Congress in the grip of her hand. The NRA approaches her firm to help kill the Brady Handgun Bill- a provision that would require waiting periods for handgun purchases and background checks.

But Miss Sloane, as unethical as her practices may be, cannot take on this case. As news circulates the opposing side hires her on to take down the NRA and get the bill passed. With all the odds, and dollars, against her she's fighting for a win no matter the cost. Gloves off and nothing off limits, Miss Sloane is taking on the fight of her career.

Miss Sloane premieres in a very appropriate time, while our country battles one another on gun control, or the lack there of. The film is seat-clenching excitement and will keep you enticed until the end. There's a lot of information to consume, as this political-drama takes you through the battles of getting a billed passed, especially one this controversial. 

Chastain is joined by other notable stars likes Mark Strong, John Lithgow, and Sam Waterston. But the stand out performance comes from Chastain who plays a pill-popping neurotic and deceiving powerful lobbyist who is obsessed with winning and won't take no for an answer. I was reminded of Chastain's role in Zero Dark Thirty, a strong character who takes no s**t from anyone.

I highly recommend this film. It's my favorite genre, drama meets deception.

SEE IT!

Mitt: A Netflix Original

This past week Netflix premiered an original documentary entitled "Mitt" about presidential candidate Mitt Romney's campaign. The film follows Romney behind the scenes during both his 2008 run for the presidency and his most recent campaign in 2012. 

While at times interesting and shedding new light on the Massachusetts governor, the film didn't do it for me. In fact, it was difficult to watch just like his actual campaign. With moments of forced emotion and awkward prayer sessions in campaign hotel rooms, Romney had a difficult time connecting to the average American. The first half follows his attempt at the presidency in 2008 during the primaries, which he lost to John McCain. Then half way through we jump forward to 2012 when he went head-to-head with President Obama.

Interestingly, it was nice to see the support behind the man. Romney had his family very close to him during the campaigns both as emotional support and consultants. Romney's five sons were very involved in all aspects of his campaign and helped him through the highs and lows. Although he may come off cold and unrelatable at times, Romney is a family man who really cares about his wife, children, and 18 grandchildren.

I'm usually a big fan of political films and documentaries, but "Mitt" lost my vote. I didn't see anything I hadn't seen during the campaign news coverage. Romney's political future looks limited, as least for now. Seems like he'll stick with what he knows best, the private sector as a business man.

SKIP IT!