It won't win any Oscars, and it has its share of flaws. But for political junkies - and anyone who still believes a single vote can make a difference - the new film Swing Vote is a worthy diversion for a 90+ August day. I liked this fairy tale because it showed how, deep down, each of us cares about our country; how candidates from both parties can be honorable and decent; and how the media can sometimes let the truth win over the facts.
The film is nonpartisan, poking fun at both Democrats and Republicans in equal measure. Kevin Costner - playing the lead character, Bud - gives a speech at the end in which he talks about the importance of being bold in our vote and looking for a true leader. Fans of both Barack Obama and John McCain could read that to mean their guy this fall. (Costner himself says that, in real life, he hasn't yet decided who'll get his vote November 4.)
The film's only real message, though, is that citizenship is important. If you're reading this blog, you understand that. But if you have friends or family who think voting isn't worth their time, take them along to see this movie.
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