Blue State

Blue State, released in 2007, is an engaging romantic comedy-drama that probes the world of American politics with a personal narrative. The film is directed by Marshall Lewy and features notable performances by Breckin Meyer, Anna Paquin and Joyce Krenz.

Breckin Meyer depicts the character of John Logue, a passionate yet disgruntled Democratic campaigner, who can’t believe his bad luck when Republican George W. Bush is reelected President of the United States for a second term in 2004. Logue, feeling dejected and disoriented, has been vocal about his disdain for the policies perpetuated by the Bush administration. Ahead of the election, he vows to move to Canada if Bush returns to power, a pledge he now has to confront. This sets off a chain of events that plot the principal story of the movie.

When we are introduced to Anna Paquin's character, Chloe Hamon, we can sense her appear to be a befuddled individual trying to feel the ground under her feet. She seems lost yet filled with a zest for adventure. When she hears about John's Canada plan, she shows interest in joining him on his journey. Though initially hesitant, John agrees to allow Chloe as a road partner based on her agreeance to split the gas cost. Their journey through the American Midwest, filled with quirks, endearing moments, and the occasional conflict, forms the heart of the storyline.

John's mother, played incredibly well by Joyce Krenz, is a firm yet doting character who is worried about her son's plans. Her role adds a touch of familial sentiment as she struggles to understand her son's decisions yet supports him in her unique way. A significant character in the film, Krenz showcases sheer acting prowess as the mother.

The story progresses as John and Chloe navigate across various states, each carrying their respective personal baggage, which unravels throughout the journey. While John appears overtly self-righteous and often blinded by his political beliefs, Chloe carries within her a past filled with regret and yearning. They form an unlikely pair, their forceful camaraderie, unexpected bond, and inevitable emotional conflicts serving as a compelling subplot amidst the political context.

The messages of the film are profoundly embedded within its plot as it unearths crucial themes of political disillusionment, the quest for personal identity, and the enchanting yet complicated realm of human relationships. Adding a touch of humor and a dab of satire to this personal-political narrative, the film offers an enjoyable cinematic experience that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Blue State is visually delightful with its remarkable cinematography that captures the varied landscapes that the main characters traverse through their journey. It smoothly blends the tones of drama and comedy and brings forth the personal crisis of its protagonist alongside the wider political milieu. The film confronts the dichotomies of identities - personal and national, encapsulating the subtleties of choosing between acceptance and rebellion, departure, and homecoming.

The performances by Breckin Meyer and Anna Paquin are commendable, with their dynamic on-screen presence serving as the film's soul. Their characters, though opposite in their dispositions, form an engaging pair whose interactions form interesting episodes dotted throughout the journey. Joyce Krenz, as the concerned mother, adds depth to the storytelling, and her portrayal is heartfelt.

Blue State is an intriguing watch for its brilliant performances, the smooth mix of personal drama with political satire, and engaging storytelling. The movie makes an important observation about the political climate without being too preachy, and it excels in exploring the emotional and personal facets of its characters set against this climate. For those interested in films that subtly contemplate social issues while telling an engaging, individualistic narrative, Blue State is a must-watch.