Vote sous influence

Since the day I saw this movie several years ago, I have been trying to obtain a copy of it. That it has not received better reviews surprises me. The movie captured my interest on multiple levels……the insight one gains into the behind the scene politics of the judiciary, the fallible human element of judicial decisions, the ludicrousness and simultaneous pragmatism of the law and the influence of personal politics and values on judicial opinion were fascinating. The astounding reality of our times that could put a woman on trial for exerting control over her own body rightly or wrongly, and ultimately (and the clincher for me) the human face of judicial decisions…..the considerations and final balance of judgment we see applied in Andy Garcia's brilliant closing argument are very moving. I highly recommend it.

This film is an engaged attempt to bring the over-emotionalized arguments pro and against abortion to a plausible, well-balanced and very well formulated compromise. The fact that Andy Garcia - especially because he is a man and the father of three children - lent his name and work to this subject makes him very sympathetic to me.

This film is surely not a court thriller as it is indicated on the cover of the video. However, it manages to show the godlike judges of Supreme Court and their work at their human sides. (good actors!) The story - I have to admit - has its weak points (especially the private life of Judge Kirkland really is sob-stuff). The music is rather annoying.

So, if you want to see a brilliant and gripping story do not waste your time by watching "Swing Vote".

But, if you are interested on the legal side of the problem of abortion, if you want to hear Andy Garcia sing, if you want to see him wearing well-cut, but rather conservative suits, if you want to see his marvellous dark eyes watching fatherly over a really sweet girl's sleep or if you just need a good film to watch while ironing or writing your Christmas cards, go for it.

A movie about the arguments pro and contra abortion isn't something you see every week. And when such a movie doesn't even make a statement in favor of one the two that's even more rare. This movie is one of this kind. It gives you all the arguments pro and contra but doesn't make a decision for you, which is a good thing.

Everybody who hopes to see a court thriller will be very disappointed. All you get to see are the judges trying to come to a compromise and some lobbyists trying to influence their opinions in function of their own cause. The story has its weaknesses, but overall it is quite good. Same for the acting. Most of the time this is more than just "TV-quality".

This isn't a bad movie, but I do understand why this went straight to video. It wouldn't stand a chance in the multiplex because it isn't a brilliant and gripping story that stands out above the average. In the end this movie may not be the best you've ever seen but it will not be a complete waste of your time either. I reward it with a 6.5/10.

I truly admire Bruckheimer, Anspaugh, Garcia and the writing duo of Bass and Rusconi for making this movie. They did so in 1999, and 23 years later, Roe vs. Wade has been overturned and the film has suddenly become timely and relevant. In addition to admiring their ambition in tackling such a complicated, political, difficult and worthy subject, there are many fine moments in the film. That said, the overall experience was ruined for me by many unrealistic, unbelievable scenes and some very clumsy dialogue. This subject would have been much better served by a multi-part mini series than a 90 minute feature. With more time it could have been told in a realistic and nuanced way.

This movie was EXCELLENT......of course I am a woman with a thankful knowing that we need a pro-choice court system.......to protect womens health rights. This movie is an excellent depiction of the grim possibilities without such protection. The closing speech Any Garcia makes is remarkable & TRUE!! Our country is in a sad state when the Catholic idea logy seeks to control and deprive women of their right to their own choice about their health and child bearing. Our country is founded on FREEDOMS.of speech.and our right to our own personal choice to bear or not bear children would remain our personal right. Other are not forced to have an abortion...why do they seek to stop those who do??? I'm looking to by a copy !!