W.

W. is a dramatic biographical movie, directed by the highly acclaimed Oliver Stone, released in 2008. Stone, known for his political-themed works, including "JFK" and "Born on the Fourth of July," brings another intriguing real-life story to the silver screen. W. presents the life and presidency of the 43rd President of the United States, George W. Bush. Starring Josh Brolin in the titular role, this film takes audiences on a journey through the complex life of one of America’s most divisive political leaders.

In this movie, we see George W. Bush as an ambitious, charismatic, and controversial figure. Josh Brolin does an exceptional job portraying the former president, effectively showcasing his transition from a seemingly directionless youth to a leader shouldering the weight of a nation. Brolin looks and sounds like Bush, but he succeeds in humanizing the character instead of resorting merely to caricature or mimicry, thus offering a compelling and engaging performance.

The storyline unfolds like a puzzle, as we jump back and forth in time, navigating Bush's life events. These non-sequential snapshots capture the layers of his personality, drawing insights into his conflicted persona. The movie looks into several aspects of his life, including his early party-filled youth at Yale, his struggles with alcoholism, his relationship with his father, George H. W. Bush, and his political journey that eventually lands him in the iconic oval office.

Elizabeth Banks portrays Laura Bush, his wife, brilliantly capturing her grace, wisdom, and the profound influence she had on her husband's life. Their relationship's portrayal is one of the film's more endearing elements, showcasing a strong bond and mutual respect between the couple, against the backdrop of a tumultuous political voyage. Banks and Brolin demonstrate great chemistry, lending credibility to the ups and downs of marital life in the political spotlight.

Ioan Gruffudd also appears in the film as Tony Blair, then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Blair's relationship with Bush, their camaraderie, and their collaborations during a time of global tension form a key subplot in the film.

Stone fills the rest of the cast with high-quality actors, such as Richard Dreyfuss as Dick Cheney, James Cromwell as George H. W. Bush, and Ellen Burstyn as Barbara Bush. Each actor delivers a strong performance, embodying their real-life counterparts in ways that enhance the overall storytelling.

Although W. is about a real-life personality, Stone approaches the film not as a strict historical documentation but as a psychological exploration. He offers a multitude of perspectives on Bush that allow the audience to see beyond his public persona. He delves into Bush's motivations and sensibilities, aiming to unlock what drove him to make certain key decisions during his presidency.

Stone's direction is equally ambitious. Together with cinematographer Phedon Papamichael, they craft a visually elegant film, making use of a diverse range of cinematic techniques to underscore the narrative’s beats. Particularly during the segments dealing with the Iraq War, the storytelling is visually immersive, maintaining tension and drama throughout.

Despite exploring George W. Bush's controversial tenure, the film refrains from getting self-righteous or overly critical. Instead, it avoids indulging in personal biases and promotes a balanced view. While not shying away from his faults, it also focuses on his human side and his resolution in times of crisis, making for a nuanced portrayal.

The screenplay, penned by Stanley Weiser, is sharp and layered. It effectively presents George W. Bush as a character who is at once larger than life and endearingly human. Weiser and Stone’s collaborative efforts set up a multi-dimensional study of the man behind the politician's polished exterior, enriching the audience's understanding of a significant chapter in American political history.

In conclusion, W. is a carefully assembled and meticulously acted feature. With a robust and engaging storyline, rounded characters, and sensitive direction, it manages to maintain the audience's interest from beginning to end. The film is both entertaining and informative, providing viewers a unique opportunity to witness the defining moments of George W. Bush's life and presidency. It is a compelling piece that provides a fresh perspective on an oft-derided political figure, highlighting the truism that every story has more than one side. For those interested in biopics, politics, or just a great character study, W. is a movie worth watching.