Tiffany Scott
Exec. Business Manager
“Long Shot” is incredibly funny to watch and offers an introspective look on politics and injustices today.
The film was directed by Jonathan Levine and written by Dan Sterling and Liz Hannah. Produced by AG Studios, the movie was released to theaters nationwide on May 3. The film features Seth Rogen as Fred Flarsky, Charlize Theron as Charlotte Field and June Raphael as Maggie Millikin.
Fred Flarsky, a journalist known for his provocative style and controversial headlines, runs into his old babysitter and now Secretary of State, Charlotte Field at a fundraiser. Charlotte has her eyes set on the White House, and seeking to lighten up her speeches with a touch of humor, she hires Fred as her new speechwriter. As she heads off on a world tour, Charlotte and Fred can’t help but get close to one another, but she must decide whether this newfound romance is worth risking her election campaign.
On a surface level, the film is just another “opposites-attract” romance story. And it is. But the screenplay and phenomenal acting gives a fresh take on the genre. Theron, who has dabbled with comedy in the past, fully embraced the genre in this film with an expert display of comedic timing. As the ambitious politician, she is effortlessly charming and regal, perfecting capturing the personality of what viewers are used to seeing from female leaders.
Even with Theron’s exceptional performance, it is the strength and chemistry of both Theron and Rogen that truly sells the concept of the film. Like his previous role in “Knocked Up,” his character knows that the woman who has fallen in love with him is out of his league. It is quite refreshing to watch a male character created to support and boost the female protagonist to becoming the best she can be with complete altruistic motivation.
Amidst the romance is a surprisingly deep look at politics and the impossible path female politicians must take in order to succeed. With the absurd restrictions and analysis of Charlotte’s every movement in public eye, there are parallels to the judgement placed on female politicians today. The incessant conditions Charlotte must meet in order to win the people’s approval is exhausting, and viewers can’t help but sympathize with her character.
The film’s comedic scenes are truly hilarious, especially when the screenplay differs from Charlotte’s controlled life to a moment of escapism when she takes drugs and heads out for a night of dancing at a nightclub. When a hostage negotiation crisis occurs right in the middle of her “high,” in a priceless sequence, Charlotte must snap back to playing Secretary of State.
With a heavy dose of political satire and quick jabs at everything from Fox News to masturbation, there is much humor and joy to be found within the film. Overall the film is genuinely heartwarming and incredibly funny. Movie goers looking for a new take on rom-coms would enjoy this film.
“Long Shot” is rated R and is playing in theaters worldwide.
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