Confirmation

Confirmation is a compelling 2016 historical dramatic film directed by Rick Famuyiwa. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Kerry Washington, Wendell Pierce, and Greg Kinnear. The title of the film, "Confirmation," refers to the rigorous vetting process a person needs to go through once nominated for a critical public office in the United States government; most notably, for positions in the Supreme Court, where the decisions made can alter the course of the nation for decades.

In the central role, Oscar nominee Greg Kinnear portrays Joe Biden, who was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee at the time of the story. Wendell Pierce plays the role of Clarence Thomas, the Supreme Court nominee whose confirmation is under scrutiny. Kerry Washington delivers a riveting performance as Anita Hill, a law professor who testifies against Thomas during the senate confirmation hearings.

The storyline unfolds in 1991, during a politically charged period in the United States. The movie's focal point is the historical senate confirmation hearings of Judge Clarence Thomas which turned into a televised spectacle after Anita Hill's allegations of sexual harassment. These dramatic hearings were then played out in the court of public opinion.

Confirmation offers viewers an intimate look into a significant period in American political history that sparked nationwide debates about gender, race, and power. It throws light on the role of the media in shaping public opinion, the challenges encountered by Hill, an African American woman and her courage to speak truth to power despite relentless scrutiny and disbelief.

The performances of the lead cast help breathe life into this charged narrative. Kerry Washington takes charge of her character, delivering a gripping performance that richly captures Anita Hill’s strength, determination, and grace under pressure. Wendell Pierce effectively portrays the complexities of Clarence Thomas; he is empathetic and frustrating in equal measure, upholding the ambiguous spirit of the true events. Greg Kinnear truly anchors the film, providing an engaging portrayal of Joe Biden’s conflicting motivations, effectively humanizing the historic figure.

The supporting cast of the film includes Jeffrey Wright, Eric Stonestreet, Grace Gummer, Kimberly Elise, Dylan Baker among others, all of whom contribute significantly to the narrative, enriching the tense atmosphere established by the lead actors.

The movie reveals to us a gripping chess game of political maneuvering and individual resilience under public scrutiny. It lays bare the adversities faced by individuals such as Anita Hill who dare to stand up and speak their truth even in the face of powerful opposition. It offers up a broader discourse on the underbelly of political power games and the price of the truth.

Famuyiwa's direction amplifies the tension and drama inherent in the events, using the camera to draw out each character's struggles and conflicts. The film’s script does an excellent job of remaining impartial, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions. Despite dealing with heavy themes, the film avoids becoming didactic or exhausting, presenting a complex issue with sensitivity and depth.

The film retains an authentic feel right through its 110-minute running time, thanks to the carefully designed sets, costumes and locations that capture the early ’90s accurately. It also scores high on the technical front, with Stephen Goldblatt’s cinematography offering a real-time feel, Julie Monroe’s editing ensuring a brisk pace and Harry Gregson-Williams’ score accentuating the film’s dramatic moments.

Confirmation is an impactful film because it revisits a critical event that reshaped American society's view on sexual harassment, sparking a nation-wide dialogue about gender equality and the abuse of power within government ranks. It is an important watch for those interested in political dramas, historical events, or those keen to study the complexities of public life, media, power, and gender politics.

In a nutshell, Confirmation is not only about the individual journey of Anita Hill or Clarence Thomas; it mirrors the larger societal and political atmosphere that surrounds these individuals. Despite taking place in a period of the last century, its themes and reflections are incredibly relevant today, making it a must-watch cinematic experience.