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Election (1999) - Black Comedy
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Election (1999)

description Election (1999) Overview

Alexander Payne's Election, released in 1999, turns a high school student-body election into a black comedy about ambition and moral hypocrisy. Matthew Broderick plays teacher Jim McAllister, whose hostility toward driven candidate Tracy Flick, played by Reese Witherspoon, leads him to interfere in the contest. A setting that appears modest becomes a place where private resentments shape public decisions and adults prove no more impartial than the students they supervise. The film uses competing perspectives to expose the gap between what characters do and the explanations they give themselves.

Tracy's determination and Jim's self-image complicate any simple division between an admirable teacher and an irritating pupil. Adapted from Tom Perrotta's novel, it received an Academy Award nomination for Adapted Screenplay. Its political insight comes through the mechanics of a small election, making it suitable for viewers who enjoy character-based satire with uncomfortable motives beneath everyday behavior.

help Election (1999) FAQ

Who directed the 1999 black comedy film "Election"?

"Election" was directed by Alexander Payne and released in 1999. The film is highly regarded for its sharp, satirical take on high school politics and adult morality.

Who stars in the movie "Election"?

The film stars Matthew Broderick as Jim McAllister, a frustrated high school teacher. Reese Witherspoon co-stars as Tracy Flick, an intensely ambitious student running for student body president.

What is the plot of "Election"?

The film revolves around a high school teacher, Jim McAllister, who becomes obsessed with thwarting the election of an overly ambitious student, Tracy Flick. It uses its student body president election as a dark allegory for real-world politics.

What genre does the 1999 movie "Election" belong to?

"Election" is primarily classified as a black comedy and a political satire. It uses dark humor to explore the ruthlessness of its characters and the ethical compromises they make.

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