OK for kids 16+
Smart, cynical thriller deals in political excesses.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this engrossing, well-acted thriller paints an ugly picture of the political landscape; prepare to be disenchanted (if you aren't already). Teens drawn to the movie by co-star Ryan Gosling's presence may find it very cynical, insidery, and heavy-handed, unless they're students of election cycles. Expect frequent swearing ("d--k," "f--k," and more), heated verbal exchanges, a suicide (not graphic), and sexual content (including some suggested steaminess and references to affairs and their aftermath).
- Families can talk about how the movie portrays politics. Do you think it's accurate? Do you think there's room for idealism in the political world?
- What role does the media have in the political process? How would you describe the relationship between media and politics?
- Are political scandals all that surprising in this day and age? Why or why not? Do you think there are more scandals now than there used to be, or is it just a case of more media coverage/awareness?
The good stuff
-
Messages: The movie is a pretty jaded look at the political and electoral process. If there's any positive message, it's that if you sacrifice your principles, you lose a piece of yourself.
-
Role models: One of the main characters is a politician who says what he thinks and does what he says. It's inspiring to hear him speak (even if he's just a movie character) because he's candid and devoted to the idea of social justice and service. His assistant also believes in him for this reason.
What to watch for
-
Violence: Verbal clashes are so stinging that they stun. A woman commits suicide.
-
Sex: Two colleagues sleep together; the audience sees close-up camera shots that hint at nudity, but no sensitive body parts are shown. Sexual banter. A liaison between a married man and a woman who works for him is discussed, and its unintended consequence has to be undone.
-
Language: Frequent use of strong words such as "f--k," "d--k," "a--hole," "s--t," "prick," "c--k," "t-ts," "hell," "crap," "damn," "goddamn," and more.
-
Consumerism: Logos for Nokia and GMC are visible.
-
Drinking, drugs and smoking: Social drinking by adults in bars; references to drugs, being drunk, and overdosing.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
The Ides of March: A- by MattH306
Very well acted and not overtly political
4
Love Gosling by Sheltiemomm
Cast was superb, everyone had a personal best in this intrigue-filled gem. Fantastically added was, Jeffrey Right, as a pivotal character. Gossling envelops any human emotion imaginable! Thrilled to see our VAMP from True Blood in a 'human' role. Would've given, 'must go!' if it had less patent politcial slants woven throughout the film. ....pass the popcorn, pls......
3
Slow with no sizzle by pmcculloch
I suppose it was a realistic political drama....but there was never an "Oh My Gosh!" moment.
All-star cast that never made me care about the characters.
Was probably a subtle arc for Gosling's Stephen, but not much else to write home about regarding Clooney, PSH, Giamatti or Tomei.
Evan Rachel Wood delivered the best performance.
a disappointing C+; worth a DVD rental, not the theater price.
4
Ides of March by pbrick42
It was an interesting movie, but it is a cynical movie about politics and shows that in order to get elected, politicians will do what they have to to get the votes.
5
Ides of March by mustbinsun
Excellent, tuant movie; good characters; tension builds throughout the movie at an even pace; great writing and storyline; absolutely ; a must see !
3
For those of you who love political movies by xxjanderxx
I was so excited to see this movie. But they show almost all of the plot in the trailer. I would have waited for it to be on dvd. It wasn't worth the $ I spent. There is two things that you don't see in the trailer. Other than that if you watch the trailer you have seen the movie. Ryan wasn't even worth it :)
4
Ides of March by Miles Bell
This is a view of polotics that is very close if not factual. Scumbags galore. Unfortunately it is probably way too true. Movie was ok but not the kind of entertainment I was looking for.
5
Slow building but great story by Jerrymoreno
Great storyline with slow but meticulous details, all of which are critical for the overall experience. Fantastic acting. If you enjoy political thrillers, this is a must-see.
1
Waste of time and $ by eytanhammerman
An avid West Wing fan, I am always looking for more of the same. THIS was not THAT. Plot was lame, acting was boring and even George Clooney couldn't seem to inspire.
5
An excellent piece by Rozzik
The movie had an excellent plot, directing style, music to speech proportions, and the viewers(me) interest. However, If you are not a person who likes to think while at the movies, to try and follow the movie from point A to point Z then you may stop reading here and save your self the time and money.
This is a great movie!
There were parts of the movie that made my adrenalin rush.
When you had to feel bad you felt bad, sad = sad, good = good, etc...
This movie is no way for Kids. Its a waste of time for Kids to go see this movie because there is no real action. Its more of a BRAIN MOVIE. Over the age of 17, where people like to think, will work.
The ending, no SPOILER ALERT HERE, is one that you wouldn't think of to find. Enjoy!