Despite the disgusting sex scenes and overuse of profanity, this film is nevertheless extremely important, showing us a behind the scenes look at politics in a world not unfamiliar to the one we currently live in.
The main plot revolves around the regal Secretary of State Charlotte Field (a brilliant Charlize Theron) who learns that the President, former TV star Chambers (Bob Odenkirk) won't run for President again as he's trying to break into films, not many have made that leap so he's endorsing her.
In an effort to increase her humor factor, Charlotte hires her former neighbor and recently fired liberal journalist, Fred Flarsky (a great Seth Rogen, if still his typical role). Despite the odds and poles, they form a relationship of a sexual nature, and while the film is about that, it is also about how Charlotte tries to do good, working relentlessly to make that happen, only to have sacrifice it as her boss's boss (that's right, the President is being controlled by someone else) doesn't want the trees to be saved. And it's because she's a woman, that is why she needs to make the sacrifice.
Fortunately, the film has a happy ending, not just for the characters but for the country as well, which is such a relief.
Given the current climate, this film is a breath of fresh air, portraying it with humor while pointing at the blatant problems and showing us that there are no easy solutions. And the film just works, with the main characters truly getting underneath the skin of their vastly different characters and the supporting characters are also brilliant, with the standout being O'Shea Jackson, Jr as Fred's college friend, Lance, supportive and successful in his own right but isn't afraid to call Fred out for being narrow-minded. He's just the best. June Diane Raphael also shines as the cold-hearted bitch and handler for Charlotte. Alexander Skarsgaard (whose just in everything) is also good as the Canadian Prime Minister who may or may not be a jackass.
Regardless of politics, go see this film. Grade: A-
Side Notes:
-That jacket Seth Rogen wears throughout needs to go.
-If you're Secretary of State, you probably shouldn't take Molly (the pill) as an emergency can pop up at a moment's notice.
-Pay attention to Andy Serkis in the flesh.
-How did gay marriage cause global warming exactly, we all want to know.
-It is nice seeing a film discuss the environment.
-Two proms are never a good idea.
-The only inconsistency in the film is that sometimes Lance wears a wedding ring, other times he does not. I know I'm nitpicking.
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