The Best Man

Name: The Best Man
Director: Franklin J. Schaffner
Genre: Drama
Released: 1964-01-01
Duration: 102 min
Rating: 7.2
Cast: Henry Fonda, Cliff Robertson, Edie Adams, Margaret Leighton, Shelley Berman

1964Dir. Franklin J. Schaffner1h 42m

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Runtime1h 42m

Released1964

DirectorFranklin J. Schaffner

About This Movie

The Best Man (1964) by Schaffner dives deep into the political circus of nomination season. It's gritty in how it portrays the backroom deals and machinations, with a tone that feels both tense and at times absurdly comical. The pacing is deliberate, allowing character dynamics to unfold, particularly between the seasoned candidates—Henry Fonda stands out here, embodying a kind of weary idealism. The film captures the atmosphere of early 60s politics with a palpable sense of urgency. Practical effects? Well, it’s mostly dialogue-driven, but the writing is sharp enough to keep you hooked. You get a glimpse of moral ambiguity that feels particularly relevant today, making it a distinctive watch for political drama enthusiasts.

Released by Warner Bros. in the US.Adapted from Gore Vidal's play of the same name.Cinematography by the notable Haskell Wexler.Features a strong ensemble cast, including Fonda and Cliff Robertson.