Courting Condi

Courting Condi is a 2008 musical docu-tragi-comedy directed by British filmmaker Sebastian Doggart. Its creative blend of genres maintains its commitment to a satirical yet thought-provoking narrative. It's a one-of-a-kind movie that meshes elements from documentary, musical, and comedic genres into a cohesive form. It stars some of the most significant political figures of the time, including former President George W. Bush and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. However, it's essential to clarify that, while having some key characters representing real-life figures, these are played by impersonators or actors, rather than the political figures themselves.

The title Courting Condi suggests romantic undertones, and the movie delivers on that front through its offbeat narrative. It tells the story of an eccentric British musician named Devin Ratray who embarks on an absurdly funny yet somewhat sweet mission to win the heart of Condoleezza Rice, depicted humorously as America's most powerful and eligible bachelorette. The idea of a love-lorn troubadour setting his romantic sights on a hard-nosed politician, as opposed to a conventional love interest, perfectly sets up the story's comedic tone.

Devin Ratray, well-known for his role in Home Alone, brings his persona to life with perfection, playing the foolishly smitten, yet highly determined protagonist. Devin's pseudo-serious romantic pursuit sets the wheels in motion for a series of wild, comedic, and even cringe-inducing scenarios that range from him penning heartfelt ballads for Rice, to launching investigations into her life to make an ideal proposal.

Intertwined within the comedic premise, the movie segues into a pseudo-documentary style where it offers a deep-dive into the life and career of Condoleezza Rice. Through this, viewers get to re-examine her rise through the ranks of academia and politics, as well as her pivotal roles during the Bush administration. This documentary within a comedy provides a historical and political context that adds a profound depth to the narrative, making it more than just a love story or comedy.

Director Sebastian Doggart brilliantly walks the tightrope between comedy and hard-hitting political commentary. With the Bush administration serving as the backdrop to the narrative, there is much exploration to be done both in the realm of political intrigue and comedic stimulus. In particular, the appearance of a George W. Bush impersonator assures audiences of periodic doses of political satire and humor.

Songwriter and two-time Oscar nominee Carol Connors adds another dimension to the film with her quirky original songs, performed by Devin as part of his serenade to Condi. These serve to enhance the cinematic experience, marrying the visual storytelling with engaging musical interjections. The soundtrack is integral to the movie as it is not just a score, but a part of the narrative fabric.

The movie’s out-of-the-box nature extends beyond its narrative or style and into its filming technique. Part of Courting Condi was shot in guerrilla-style filmmaking when Devin Ratray and Sebastian Doggart daringly filmed at the 2008 Republican National Convention without official permission. This lends a certain raw, chaotic aesthetic to the movie, enhancing its feel of a politically-engaged comedy.

Courting Condi is a playful yet incisive film that merges the mundane with the monumental and the comic with the critical. It offers viewers an alternative route into American politics, embedding comedic charm into what is often seen as austere and inaccessible terrain. For those who enjoy political humor with offbeat romances and unconventional narrative styles, Courting Condi is a movie worth exploring.