All the President’s Men

The first time I saw this film, I was impressed but found I couldn't enjoy it completely. In order to
keep up with the fast pace of the plot, I didn't pay as much attention to the writing and the
performances as I should have, or much at all. When it was over, I felt the rapid pace of the
story mask the screenplay and acting. Throughout the film, the writers portrays the idea of
these two reporters being completely outnumbered by the people responsible for the Watergate
break-in. I loved the numerous overhead shots of Woodward and Bernstein that pull up until
they're nothing more than specks in the dirty streets of DC. This is also used in the classic
scene where the two guys are searching through old records and the camera pulls up to the
ceiling and shows them seated along the edge of a circular series of desks. "All the President's
Men" has no hidden morals, messages, meanings. It's just a true story about something that
happened, brought to life on the big screen, by a great director, an influential screenwriter and
two amazing actors. It's going to have you thinking after it's over, also it's the type of movie that
will generate a lot of talk instead. And often that's a good thing. The film escalates right along,
leaving the viewers as excited over the reporters' discoveries as they are. William Goldman's
script helps in this regard, I think, sticking straight to the script and cutting out anything
unnecessary.The dialogue gets delivered straightforwardly while working in realistic vocal
habits. Redford really captures this well (listen to his stammering and self-corrections when he
talks on the phone to source). Overall, this movie is absolutely amazing and though it might be
meticulously slow in the beginning, it will get you out of your seat by the end!