Kevin McCarthy is excellent in this film. The scene where he brings in the guy that reveals something to Henry Fonda's character about his opponent is the best. He speaks few lines, but you get every look and thought. Actually, the same can be said of just about all in this movie, perhaps indicative of the director's talent.
shareinteresting to compare McCarthy's performance with that of Peter Boyle in 'the Candidate' (1972), also playing the role of a campaign manager, or 'handler'. Boyle has a larger role, I suppose, but the manipulating and shrewd dealing are similar.
I caught, for the first time, 'Best Man' on TCM this weekend, and was impressed with its frankness and political savvy, as well as McCarthy's presence. I do think that 'Best Man' was a precursor to 'The Candidate', although the latter runs a bit longer, and concerns a long-shot runner in a senatorial race, rather than the infighting for a party nomination for the White House . But politics is politics!
if you enjoyed 'Best Man', try to give R Redford's 'Candidate' a looksee when you can - DVD is rare and pricey - I actually picked up a mint VHS copy from an Amazon reseller - much cheaper.
:-) canuckteach (--:
Funny, when I read the topic for this thread, I immediately thought it was about the US Representative who just lost his chance to be speaker because, ironically, he spoke. But I see the thread is from some years back and concerns the actor.
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