Watch Abraham Lincoln

"Abraham Lincoln" is a biographical drama film directed by the renowned filmmaker D.W. Griffith and released in 1930. The film presents a vivid cinematic portrait of the 16th president of the United States, one of the most significant and revered figures in American history. In this ambitious undertaking, the movie traces the life and times of Abraham Lincoln, from his humble beginnings through his political ascent and ultimately to his role as a national leader during one of the most turbulent periods in American history.

Walter Huston delivers a powerful and commanding performance in the title role of Abraham Lincoln, embodying the spirit, determination, and complexities of the man who became a legend. His portrayal captures Lincoln's trademark features, from his tall stature and deep, resonant voice to the weariness etched upon his face by the burdens of leadership and the weight of a nation divided. As Lincoln, Huston commands the screen with an authenticity and presence that brings the historical figure to life in a remarkable and convincing manner.

The film opens with the background of Lincoln's early days, painting a picture of his birth in a log cabin in Kentucky and his formative years in Indiana and Illinois. It provides a glimpse into his initial forays into employment—working on a farm, splitting logs, and keeping a store—before following his transition into political and legal careers driven by a desire to serve and a passion for justice.

As the young Lincoln, his personality is shown to be an amalgam of homespun wisdom, kindness, and a genuine empathy for people from all walks of life—qualities that would later define his presidency. The movie showcases striking scenes from his love life, including his tragic relationship with Ann Rutledge (played by Una Merkel) and his complex marriage to Mary Todd, which together offer a nuanced exploration into the private and personal side of the often-mythicized president.

As Lincoln's tale progresses, we see his move into politics, depicting not only his robust oratory skills and his ability to connect with audiences but also the tumultuous political climate of the time. His political career includes successes and failures alike, from his early work in the Illinois legislature to the famed Lincoln-Douglas debates where he stood against slavery, all leading to his eventual election as President of the United States in 1860.

Once in office, Lincoln is confronted with the daunting challenge of a nation on the brink of disintegration. The film delves into the tumultuous Civil War years where Lincoln's presidency is marked by his unwavering commitment to preserve the Union, his issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation, and his relationship with key figures of his cabinet and military leaders. It shows a leader grappling with the political machinations of war, balancing the need for decisive action with his innate sense of compassion and humanity.

The director, D.W. Griffith, who by 1930 had already made a name for himself as one of cinema's early visionaries, brings a grandiose approach to the storytelling. "Abraham Lincoln" marks Griffith's first talkie, transitioning from the silent film era to incorporating sound, which allows for a more immediate and immersive experience of the characters' dialogue and emotional nuances.

The film employs a semi-documentary style, interspersing historical enactments with title cards that quote from speeches and documents of the era. The production’s attention to detail in costume and set design seeks to recreate the authenticity of the 19th century, immersing audiences in the period's aesthetic.

The supporting cast of "Abraham Lincoln," including actors like William L. Thorne and others, provides a backdrop of historical figures, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the narrative and illuminating different aspects of Lincoln's presidency and the Civil War.

Although a film from the early sound era, "Abraham Lincoln" showcases Griffith's evolving cinematic techniques, blending the power of performance with innovative uses of the camera, lighting, and sound to communicate the story's emotional depth. Its historical recreations aim to respect the complexity of the era while telling a human story about a leader who would shape the course of American history.

As an early biographical motion picture, "Abraham Lincoln" attempts to encapsulate the essence of a storied presidency and the human being behind it. It is a significant piece of cinema not only as an artifact of early Hollywood filmmaking but also as a monument to the enduring legacy of a president who steered the United States through its darkest hours. Despite its age, the film remains a homage to a president whose leadership qualities and moral conviction have left an indelible impact on American society.

Abraham Lincoln is a 1930 history movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.