If you like politics, this movie will be right up your alley. If you don’t it will affirm your greatest fears. In any case it may very well change how you read the latest political news. If you don’t like politics, this will affirm your reasons why. This shows the scum and crudeness of the political world in the United States.

In the film, George Clooney’s character is a squeaky clean politician. He has that movie star good looks so necessary in today’s media political campaigns. Philip Seymour Hoffman’s character is his campaign manager, who will do whatever it takes to win.

Ryan Gosling’s character is the young political genius who knows how to sell the product to anyone.

Paul Giamatti’s character is the rival campaign manager. With these famous actors as the main characters, you know there will be plenty of drama to keep the audience entertained.

Gosling’s character is an idealist. He is excited and committed. He’s part of this campaign because he believes in what he’s doing and in the candidate he works for.

As the movie unfolds Marisa Tomei’s character enters as a journalist always on the lookout for a deep background scoop. Evan Rachel Wood’s character joins the scene as a young volunteer who also seems to be in it for the idealism, but you soon find out she has a dirty secret that could cost the Governor his votes.

Which sets the stage for some terrific acting, especially by Clooney and the always remarkable Gosling. Clooney is able to exude campaign charm and politician mindset. Whilst Gosling’s character, on the other hand, is soon challenged. The change in his character is subtle until that moment when you look in his eyes and see absolutely nothing, no emotion. Nothing.

It may say more about who we are in 2011 than about the change in politics. Who are the good guys? Who are the bad guys? Is there a difference anymore? We may never be sure. Cynicism rules in the political process of the 21st Century. Opportunism is the overarching presence, which was shown in this film. Politicians and their campaigners will do anything to win. Politics is a “dog eat dog” world, that I wish to NEVER be a part of.

I don’t like politics, but I was thoroughly interested and entertained the entire movie. The film leaves you wondering “what happens next”. Terrific movie. I recommend it.