7.3/10
89% Critics / 80% Audience
Lincoln is a 2012 American biographical historical drama film directed and produced by Steven Spielberg, starring Daniel Day-Lewis in his Academy Award-winning portrayal of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The film also features a stellar supporting cast including Sally Field, David Strathairn, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, James Spader, Hal Holbrook, and Tommy Lee Jones.
Written by Tony Kushner and loosely based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s 2005 biography Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, the film focuses on the final four months of Lincoln’s life, particularly his efforts to secure the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery and involuntary servitude.
Premiering at the New York Film Festival on October 8, 2012, and released widely on November 16, 2012, the film became both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $275 million worldwide. It earned 12 Academy Award nominations, winning two, including Best Actor for Day-Lewis. It has since been hailed as one of Spielberg’s greatest films and a landmark in 21st-century cinema.
Lincoln (2012 Film) – Official Trailer
What is Lincoln About?
The film is set during the final months of the American Civil War in January 1865. With victory over the Confederacy in sight, President Lincoln worries that his Emancipation Proclamation may be overturned in court. Determined to make emancipation permanent, he pushes for the Thirteenth Amendment to be passed by the House of Representatives before the war’s end.
The story highlights:
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Lincoln’s moral and political struggles to secure votes in a deeply divided Congress.
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His use of political strategy and persuasion, including job offers to sway lame-duck Democrats.
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His personal life, including tensions with Mary Todd Lincoln and his son Robert’s wish to enlist in the army.
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The climactic House debate and vote, where Thaddeus Stevens tempers his radical rhetoric to ensure passage.
The film concludes with Lincoln’s assassination at Ford’s Theatre, juxtaposed with his second inaugural address, symbolizing his enduring vision of unity and peace.
Is Lincoln Worth Watching?
Yes, Lincoln is widely regarded as an essential historical drama for both film enthusiasts and history lovers.
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Daniel Day-Lewis’s Performance: Often called the most authentic cinematic portrayal of Abraham Lincoln.
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Spielberg’s Direction: Balances intimate character moments with the grandeur of political history.
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Historical Resonance: Offers insights into the complex politics of emancipation and the moral dilemmas of leadership.
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Educational Value: Frequently used in schools and universities as a teaching tool about U.S. history and governance.
If you are interested in history, politics, or powerful character-driven cinema, Lincoln is a must-watch.
Why Should I Watch Lincoln?
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It offers a powerful dramatization of a pivotal moment in American history.
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The film provides a nuanced view of Lincoln, portraying him as both compassionate and pragmatic.
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It showcases masterclass acting performances, particularly from Daniel Day-Lewis and Tommy Lee Jones.
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The screenplay by Tony Kushner is praised for its political depth and eloquence.
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It’s a rare historical drama that is both cinematically captivating and educationally enriching.
Cast and Characters
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Daniel Day-Lewis as President Abraham Lincoln
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Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln
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David Strathairn as Secretary of State William H. Seward
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Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Robert Todd Lincoln
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James Spader as political operative William N. Bilbo
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Hal Holbrook as Francis Preston Blair
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Tommy Lee Jones as Congressman Thaddeus Stevens
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Jared Harris as General Ulysses S. Grant
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Jackie Earle Haley as Confederate Vice President Alexander H. Stephens
The ensemble cast brings historical figures to life with both gravitas and human vulnerability.
Production and Development
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Spielberg acquired rights to Doris Kearns Goodwin’s Team of Rivals in 2001.
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Early drafts of the script focused on Lincoln’s relationship with Frederick Douglass, but Spielberg and Kushner narrowed the scope to the final months of Lincoln’s presidency.
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Casting History: Liam Neeson was originally cast but stepped down, believing he had grown too old for the part. Daniel Day-Lewis initially declined, later accepting and delivering a legendary performance.
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Filming took place in Virginia (Richmond, Petersburg, Fredericksburg), chosen for its authentic historic architecture.
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Music: John Williams composed the score, recorded with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, adding a solemn and stirring atmosphere.
Reception and Critical Response
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Rotten Tomatoes: 89% approval rating based on 288 reviews.
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Metacritic: Score of 87/100, indicating “universal acclaim.”
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CinemaScore: Audiences gave it an “A.”
Critics praised:
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Daniel Day-Lewis’s transformative performance.
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Spielberg’s restrained, meticulous direction.
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Tony Kushner’s intelligent, dialogue-heavy script.
It was named on numerous Top 10 lists for 2012 and remains a highlight of Spielberg’s career.
Box Office Performance
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Budget: $65 million
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Worldwide gross: $275 million
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Achieved strong box office numbers despite its heavy subject matter, demonstrating the broad appeal of historical dramas when executed with skill.
Legacy and Impact
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Cemented Daniel Day-Lewis’s reputation as one of the greatest actors in film history (winning his third Best Actor Oscar).
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Recognized as one of the finest portrayals of Lincoln on screen.
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Used as an educational resource across U.S. schools, with DVDs and guides distributed to more than 37,000 secondary schools.
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Sparked historical debates, with some historians critiquing its portrayal of abolition as oversimplified.
Lincoln (2012 Film) FAQ
Q: Is Lincoln historically accurate?
A: The film is broadly accurate but takes dramatic liberties, particularly in emphasizing Lincoln’s central role in the Thirteenth Amendment’s passage.
Q: How long is the film?
A: The runtime is 150 minutes (2h 30m).
Q: Did Daniel Day-Lewis win an Oscar for Lincoln?
A: Yes, he won Best Actor at the 85th Academy Awards, marking his third win in the category.
Q: Is the film suitable for classrooms?
A: Yes. It is often used as an educational tool to teach about the Civil War, Lincoln’s presidency, and the Thirteenth Amendment.
Q: Does the film cover Lincoln’s entire life?
A: No. It focuses only on the final months of his life, specifically the political battle to pass the Thirteenth Amendment.
Conclusion
Lincoln (2012) is more than a historical drama — it is a reflection on leadership, morality, and the power of politics to enact lasting change. With Daniel Day-Lewis’s unforgettable performance, Spielberg’s masterful direction, and a story that resonates with themes of justice and equality, the film remains one of the defining works of modern historical cinema.
It is both an artistic achievement and an educational landmark, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in history, politics, or the power of film to inspire reflection on the past.