Running Mates

Running Mates is a fascinating political comedy and drama released in the year 2000, featuring some wondrous performances by popular actors including Tom Selleck, Laura Linney, and Nancy Travis. Directed by Ron Lagomarsino and scripted by Claudia Salter, the movie presents an engaging and humorous narrative with underlying serious tones to keep viewers entertained, thought-provoking and wholesome all at once.

The plot revolves around the character Governor James Reynolds Pryce, earnestly portrayed by Tom Selleck. Governor Pryce is a charismatic and ethical politician from the state of Michigan who is perched right on the cusp of his party’s nomination for President of the United States. The film explores the frenzied, complex, and often unpredictable world of political campaigns through the lens of Pryce's journey. The essence of his integrity, profound belief in the system, and a deeply-rooted will to do right by his country forms the foundation of the storyline.

Complementing the extraordinary persona of Governor Pryce is Senator Parker Gable (portrayed by Bruce McGill). As an old-school, competitive politico, Senator Gable adds elements of conflict and intrigue to the story. Their rivalry, filled with sharp wits and fierce debates, mirrors the gritty realities of political races, while the humorous undertones keep the tempers in check.

The two talented actresses, Laura Linney and Nancy Travis, play contrasting but equally appealing characters. Linney as Lauren Hartman, a seasoned and intelligent news reporter, adds a dimension of intense realism to the plot with her keen eye for the truth and her role in portraying the power of media. On the other hand, Nancy Travis as Jenny Pryce, the Governor's supportive yet strong-willed wife, presents a side of the campaign that is often behind the curtains - the personal pressures and struggles of a political family.

Running Mates takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride through the struggles, success, pitfalls, and revelations in Governor Pryce's campaign journey. The plot thickens as the stakes get higher, with Pryce trying hard to maintain his core beliefs while battling the murky world of politics. The movie skillfully unravels the multilayered dynamics of political campaigns, the manipulation of public images, the sensationalism of media, and the influence and play of power-seeking individuals.

Moreover, the movie does not shy away from highlighting the complexities posed by political alliances, the sacrifices one has to make, and the political horse-trading that often constitutes a significant part of these journeys. It bravely opens the discussion on the daunting question: can a man stay true to himself in a world that seems to thrive on deception?

The director effectively uses humor as a tool to soften the jarring blows of political reality, while abundant dialogues steeped in wit and irony are key ingredients of the film's appeal. The protagonists' journey is enlivened by a series of entertaining situations, clever remarks, and amusing absurdities.

Tom Selleck's performance is a standout, capturing the essence of a leader in turmoil, torn between his passion for politics and his yearning for human connections. His on-screen aura and exceptional acting bring life to his character, making audience root for him. Supporting performances by Linney, Travis, and McGill are equally remarkable, giving depth and layers to their respective roles.

Running Mates, by combining political drama with humor, offers a delightful viewing experience. Fearlessly embracing the harsh realities of politics while maintaining a warm, humane view of its players, it invites viewers to reflect on the integrity and personal sacrifices behind the public personas. This movie presents a captivating storyline, carefully embedded in a political context, yet accessible to all viewers irrespective of their background.