Don't Watch 'Elle', Check Out This Forgotten Reese Witherspoon School Comedy With 92% on RT
The film illustrates that real political battles can unfold even within the walls of a school.
If you're disappointed by the new series Elle, about a young Elle Woods, better watch a Reese Witherspoon movie that has been unfairly forgotten: Election.
This dark comedy, directed by Alexander Payne, who also made The Holdovers, was one of Reese Witherspoon's first major roles, earning her a Golden Globe nomination.
What Is 'Election' About?
Tracy Flick, an ambitious, energetic, and slightly brazen high school student, dreams of becoming student council president. Her teacher, Jim McAllister, knows her quarrelsome and treacherous nature, and he will do whatever it takes to ensure she loses.
He believes that Tracy would destroy the school rather than lead it to success, however, he has no idea who he's dealing with. Tracy quickly learns of his plans and engages in a fierce power struggle.
Both are convinced they're fighting for the right cause. However, their rivalry escalates into a full-blown war, with each willing to go to any length.
Reese Witherspoon Earned Her First Major Award Nomination for Her Role in 'Election'
Election was Reese Witherspoon's breakout role. She played Tracy Flick, a character whose pompous demeanor infuriates those around her yet inspires admiration with her persistence and determination.
Witherspoon created an iconic character: ambitious, assertive, and ready to step on others yet still vibrant and human. For this role, Witherspoon received her first Golden Globe nomination, and the movie itself was nominated for an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Matthew Broderick is also superb as Jim McAllister, the archetypal "good teacher" whose attempts to do the right thing lead to disaster at every turn.
'Election' Is a Dark, Quasi-Political Comedy That Was Ahead of Its Time
At first glance, Election may seem like a typical high school comedy, but it's actually a sharp satire of the American political system, hypocrisy, and human stupidity.
Almost thirty years later, Alexander Payne's film feels even more relevant. His distinctive brand of humor – ironic, caustic, and witty – still evokes laughter, and the social issues raised in the movie remain acute.
Election is a movie that isn't afraid to show the dark side of the American Dream, reminding us that even in high school, one can face real political struggles.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Election'?
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Election has 92% from critics and 79% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.2/10.
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On Letterboxd, Election scored 3.8/5.0.
Where to Watch 'Election'?
Election is available to buy or rent on Amazon Prime Video.
