Watch Power
- R
- 1986
- 1 hr 51 min
-
5.7 (3,150)
Power is a political thriller movie from 1986 that stars Richard Gere, Julie Christie, and Gene Hackman. Directed by Sidney Lumet, the movie is set in the backdrop of the New York City political world where the business of power dominates the decision-makers. The movie revolves around the journey of Pete St. John (played by Richard Gere), a lobbyist for a global corporation known as the CEA. Pete is the best in the business and he knows how to get the job done by working his way through the corridors of power. The movie begins with Pete St. John working for the CEA, which is in the process of acquiring a company called Metromedia. Pete has been assigned to work with two opposing factions to get things done- the one backing the Metromedia acquisition and the other wanting it to fail. The movie shows how the two factions, with the help of Pete, try to sway public opinion in their favor by getting their stories out in the media. They spread rumors, bribe politicians and use every trick in their arsenal to defeat the opposition. Along the way, Pete meets Lydia (played by Julie Christie), an activist who is against the acquisition of Metromedia. She is against big corporations taking over independent companies and believes that the Metromedia deal will do more harm than good. Pete, who is impressed by her views, starts to have second thoughts about his work and begins to question if what he is doing is really right. As the story progresses, it becomes apparent that things are not what they seem. There are forces at play that are beyond the control of even the most powerful people in the city. The movie portrays the corruption and greed that is rampant in the political system, and how it is the only way to get things done. It also shows how the media can be manipulated to sway opinion and how easy it is to create a false narrative to achieve your goals. The performances in the movie are top-notch. Richard Gere gives a solid performance as Pete St. John, the corporate lobbyist with a conscience. He channels the 80s corporate vibe perfectly and brings depth to his character. Julie Christie is brilliant as Lydia, the activist who is fighting for what she believes in. She brings a sense of honesty and likability to her character, making her stand out even among the big names in the movie. Gene Hackman, who plays the CEO of the CEA, is his usual charismatic self. He is ruthless and cunning, and his portrayal of the corrupt businessman is spot on. The cinematography in the movie is also impressive. The movie captures the essence of the New York political world with its dimly lit offices, smoky backrooms, and the powerful people who inhabit them. The pacing of the movie is great too. It never feels too slow or too fast, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps the audience engaged throughout. All in all, Power is a great movie that showcases the corrupt and dangerous world of politics and the people who inhabit it. It's an intriguing thriller that explores the relationship between big business, the media, and politics. The movie raises important questions about power and how it is wielded in our society. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in politics or just great thrillers in general.