Nixon (1995) vs. Lincoln (2012): A Detailed Comparison of Two Presidential Biopics

Nixon (1995) and Lincoln (2012) are two historical movies that portray the lives and times of two of America's most famous presidents. However, there are significant differences in the way these two movies present their stories.

Firstly, 'Nixon' is a biopic that covers the life and political career of Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States. The movie depicts Nixon as a complex and flawed figure, with a strong focus on his personal demons, including his paranoia, insecurity, and deep-seated resentments. In contrast, 'Lincoln' is a historical drama that focuses on the final months of Abraham Lincoln's presidency, during which he worked tirelessly to pass the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States.

Secondly, 'Nixon' is a highly stylized movie that makes use of a non-linear narrative structure, jumping back and forth between different periods of Nixon's life. The movie also makes use of a variety of visual techniques, including split screens, flashbacks, and archival footage, to create a sense of disorientation and confusion. In contrast, 'Lincoln' is a more straightforward movie that follows a linear narrative structure, with a focus on dialogue and character development.

Thirdly, 'Nixon' is a movie that is highly critical of its subject, portraying him as a deeply flawed and morally compromised figure. The movie is unafraid to show Nixon's darker side, including his involvement in the Watergate scandal, his efforts to suppress civil rights, and his tendency to lie and manipulate. In contrast, 'Lincoln' is a movie that celebrates its subject, portraying him as a heroic and compassionate figure who was willing to risk everything to end slavery and save the Union.

In conclusion, 'Nixon' and 'Lincoln' are two very different movies that offer contrasting views on their respective subjects. While 'Nixon' is a critical and complex portrayal of a deeply flawed president, 'Lincoln' is a more straightforward and celebratory portrayal of a heroic and compassionate leader. Ultimately, both movies are valuable contributions to the cultural legacy of two of America's most famous presidents.