Pitchforks: 4/5
Release date: Jan. 13
Audiences are sure to relish the historical drama in the recently released “The Iron Lady.” The film has had a controversial buzz around it as some critics claim the portrayal is too kind towards the depiction of Margaret Thatcher, the first and only female prime minister in the United Kingdom’s history.
Others argue it is an accurate portrayal of Thatcher who was termed “The Iron Lady” to describe her feisty nature and willful proposals.
The storyline recounts Margaret’s (Meryl Streep) days as a young girl in a cluttered crowd listening to her father's political rants up to the days of her election as Prime Minister. The film coasts in and out of flashbacks as an older Thatcher reminisces of her glory days with her husband (Jim Broadbent).
Nevertheless, Margaret battles to keep her gusto and wit as she struggles with senility. Her conflict is not just to persuade others her sanity remains intact, but to also convince herself.
The timeline of events in the movie is accurate with scenes that seem to include live footage of civil riots during the time the movie is set. The music in the film featuring the work of composer Thomas Newman also adds to the overall success of the story. The fast paced tracks in the civil riots scenes smoothly parallel the chaos of the time.
Streep delivers an exceptional performance and lives up to the high expectations audiences have for her. The actress succeeds in taking on the role of an existing figure just as she did in her previous role as well-renowned chef, Julia Child (“Julie & Julia”). Streep does justice by the former Prime Minister as she captures Thatcher's uncanny zeal, intellect and unyielding personality.
Director Phyllida Lloyd proves to be a visionary. Having already worked with Streep in “Mamma Mia!” Lloyd was able to convey her concept to the screen by rendering the story with full confidence.
Equally deserving of an ovation is Streep's co-star, Jim Broadbent (“Gangs of New York,” “Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince”). His lax personality and witty charm balances Margaret's, sometimes stern and overbearing ways. The duo’s performance calls for praise.
“The Iron Lady” depicts Thatcher’s rise through a politically male-dominant world, and her fight for a nation she loves. From grocer's daughter to prime minister, the film tells a woman’s story of courage and perseverance, but also conflict and loss.
Reach the reporter at cstarboa@asu.edu
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