Hammerman Ikon

Hammerman Ikon Film Guide

The Contender
2000
***
Director: Rod Lurie
Cast: Joan Allen, Jeff Bridges, Gary Oldman, Sam Elliott, Christian Slater

This cynical political drama depicts Washington as a rooting ground for ruthless power games. Joan Allen plays the new vice-presidential candidate who is smeared in a sex scandal but reluctant to comment on the allegations. Sadly the ending feels compelled to re-establish our trust in democracy and the political system. Nice performances from Jeff Bridges and Gary Oldman.