The Contender (2000) [Blu-ray review]

“The Contender” is such a 2000 movie. But, what does that mean? Directed by Rod Lurie, this political thriller stars Joan Allen, Jeff Bridges, and Gary Oldman, and dives deep into the gritty realism of political maneuvering, the personal cost of public service, and the intense scrutiny faced by women in power.

A Lady Vice President? It doesn’t make sense

“The Contender” revolves around Senator Laine Hanson (Joan Allen), who is nominated by President Jackson Evans (Jeff Bridges) to fill the Vice Presidential seat after the sudden death of the incumbent. What follows is a brutal confirmation battle led by Congressman Shelly Runyon (Gary Oldman), the head of the committee overseeing the nomination. Runyon opposes her nomination, unleashing a series of allegations that threaten to derail her career and personal life. The film unpacks the dirty tricks and power plays of Washington politics, focusing on Hanson’s resolve to maintain her dignity amid the onslaught.

Come for Joan Allen and if it’s your sort of thing, then come for Jeff Bridges too. It’s 2024

Joan Allen’s portrayal of Laine Hanson is central to the film’s impact. Hanson is crafted as a steadfast, principled character whose past and personal choices become fodder for public debate. Allen’s nuanced performance captures the complexity of a woman navigating a male-dominated political arena, highlighting her strength and vulnerability. Jeff Bridges brings charm and a certain moral ambiguity to President Evans, providing a counterbalance to the stark villainy presented by Gary Oldman’s Shelly Runyon. Runyon is portrayed not just as a political antagonist but as a deeply flawed character, whose motivations are grounded in his own perception of patriotic duty.

Women vs. Sexism – The Glass Ceiling Get Polished

“The Contender” dives into themes of sexism, privacy, and political integrity. One of the film’s central questions is how much a person’s past should weigh on their public and professional life, especially through the lens of gender. Hanson’s treatment compared to her male colleagues underlines the double standards women face in politics and beyond. Additionally, the film scrutinizes the ethics of political warfare and the sacrifices made by public servants in their personal lives.

Rod Lurie proves that film critics can direct. I mean it’s not like he is running the camera or anything

Rod Lurie, a former film critic turned director, brings a journalist’s eye to the storytelling, focusing on realism and detail. The cinematography captures the claustrophobic, often stark nature of political life, using close-ups and tight framing to emphasize the personal drama and isolation of the characters. Lurie uses dialogue and pacing effectively to build tension, making the political machinations as thrilling as any action sequence.

Recent history for Generation Alpha

Released during the 2000 U.S. presidential election, “The Contender” resonated with real-world political controversies, including debates over privacy, the role of the media in politics, and the treatment of women in public life. Its portrayal of a female vice-presidential candidate was particularly poignant, coming at a time when such a scenario was still mostly hypothetical in real U.S. politics.

Do people still remember The Contender?

“The Contender” remains relevant for its exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by public officials. It has been both praised and criticized for its portrayal of political issues, especially its take on partisan politics and media influence. The film is often referenced in discussions about gender and politics, contributing to ongoing debates about the barriers women face in leadership roles.

“The Contender” is a compelling political drama that tackles important themes with sophistication and a strong narrative drive. Joan Allen’s performance, supported by an equally robust cast, elevates the film beyond standard political thrillers. It offers a sharp look at the complexities of power, privacy, and gender in American politics, making it a significant film for those interested in the intersections of cinema and political discourse. As a piece of film history, it serves as a thought-provoking examination of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in public service.

The Contender is now on Blu-ray from Giant

The Contender is a stellar Blu-ray release with absolutely no special features. Given that it’s an adult movie from over a decade ago, you should be happy it’s not streaming only with forced ads on Prime Video or Hulu. It’s weird that we are in this age, but let’s enjoy a quiet Political Drama from 2000 that got overshadowed by everything from Almost Famous to Wonder Boys upon release.

The A/V Quality boasts a DTS-HD 5.1 mix that feels slightly old, but it also works well with the film. The 1080p transfer holds up, but certain media elements look rough in HD. I dig it, but I know it won’t connect with a ton of you.

The Contender can now be purchased on Blu-ray from MovieZyng!