Watch The Last Hurrah

"The Last Hurrah" from 1958 is an engrossing political drama directed by John Ford and starring Spencer Tracy, Jeffrey Hunter, and Dianne Foster. The movie is based on a novel by Edwin O'Connor and follows the last campaign of Frank Skeffington, a charming and old-fashioned politician who has been mayor of a major city for decades. Spencer Tracy delivers an outstanding performance as Skeffington, the political boss who is fighting to win one last election despite facing numerous challenges. He is surrounded by an array of characters, including Jeffrey Hunter as Skeffington's young and idealistic advisor, Dianne Foster as a seductive woman who has an affair with Skeffington, and a supporting cast of familiar faces such as Basil Rathbone, Pat O'Brien, and John Carradine.

The film is set in an era when politics and the media were becoming increasingly intertwined. As Skeffington's campaign unfolds, he faces opposition from a young journalist who is determined to expose his corrupt practices. The tension between old-style politics and the new media is a constant theme throughout the film, and it is fascinating to see how characters react to the changing times.

The Last Hurrah is also a film about family dynamics. Frank Skeffington has a large and diverse family, and we see how his relationships with them impact his career. We see how his children and grandchildren support him, but also how they are affected by his political career, and how they make sacrifices for him.

The film also touches on themes such as loyalty, power, and the value of honest, authentic communication. Frank Skeffington is a character who is both likable and flawed, and we see how he deals with the various pressures and ethical dilemmas of his job. The movie is well-paced, and its themes are explored in a way that is engaging and thought-provoking.

Apart from Spencer Tracy's monumental performance, there is more to enjoy about this film. The Last Hurrah is beautifully shot in black and white, capturing both the grandeur of politics as well as the intimacy of Frank Skeffington's family life. John Ford's direction is masterful, and he expertly balances the film's many different elements. The script is smart and witty, highlighting the best and worst of politics in a way that is both entertaining and insightful.

The film's climax is suspenseful and poignant, and it leaves a lasting impression. It's a fitting end to a thrilling story, and it's easy to see why The Last Hurrah has become a classic of American cinema. It remains a relevant and engaging film that reminds us of the complexities and challenges of political life.

In conclusion, The Last Hurrah is a must-watch for fans of political dramas or classic films. Spencer Tracy's performance alone is worth the price of admission, but there is much more to enjoy about this movie. It's an expertly crafted film that explores timeless themes, delivered by a talented cast and crew. The Last Hurrah is a true Hollywood classic that deserves a place in any film lover's collection.

The Last Hurrah is a 1958 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 1 minute. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.