The ways and means of Hollywood

By Aaron Rich
Daily Arts Writer

It may be a cliché, but there is merit to the statement that Hollywood loves scandals. This is apparent in the Mike Nichols film, "Primary Colors." Not only does this presidential portrayal kick up old dust from under the White House rugs, but it is dust that many viewers cannot wait to see.

This effort hails from a rich tradition of politics in film - beginning with Frank Capra's "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington," which was released 59 years ago. Ever since then, one factor has remained constant - regardless of their high stature, politicians are fair game for cinematic representation.

There is a big difference between making a film about politics and making one that attracts viewers. Film and video studies Prof. Hubert Cohen said "Mr. Smith" has a multi-generational appeal.

"You're in the Capra world. He speaks to an idealistic world," Cohen said. "And that is even supported by great acting."

Courtesy of 20th Century Fox Bill Pullman was pulling the strings as the nation's chief executive in "Independence Day."

The allure of Jimmy Stewart is something in and of itself. His movie-star magnitude, along with his "down-home" reality, makes his character, Jefferson Smith, lovable and trustworthy.

The same argument can be made for the appeal of "Primary Colors." John Travolta has many of the same qualities associated with Stewart, and by casting him, the image of the president is colored, Cohen said.

"By putting Travolta on the screen, you've already made a great statement," Cohen said.

Travolta brings boyish good looks and an attitude of certainty to the film, making his character, presidential candidate Jack Stanton, a reliable friend - even when he has done wrong.

Hollywood bankers have been upset with some political films such as "Wag the Dog" because of a lack of public interest in the works.

"Wag the Dog" presents the audience with no amiable characters in whom the audience can have faith. Whether "Primary Colors" depicts cover-ups or not, Jack Stanton is charismatic and lovable in the end. The characters in "Wag the Dog" are simply pessimistic, dark and sly.

"The American President," starring Michael Douglas, was another film largely ignored by American audiences. It shows an opposing world from that of "Wag the Dog."

The president refuses to stoop to the level of his slimy opponent. This film is essentially a return to the ideal and romantic Capra world - and therein may lie its Achilles' heel. Films of recent years have primarily focused on scandal (take "Absolute Power," "Dave," "Murder at 1600" or "Nixon"). An altruistic executive stands out as the misfit in the sea of such films.

Cohen said a moral president is essentially a "slap in the face to Clinton" - a greatly loved and possibly flawed president.

So what keeps viewers continually in the theaters, watching fictitious presidents and politicians playing out doctored stories?

There is something to be said for the attraction of big stars such as John Travolta, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Jimmy Stewart. The story must be down-to-Earth and believable. Along with this, there must be a main character with whom one can associate and identify.

Finally, for better or worse, it seems in recent years that sleaze and foolishness are the keys to the cash. "Primary Colors" has all of these factors, and on top of that, the story of Jack Stanton - or Bill Clinton - continues every night on the news. It may not be Capra, but corruption will do.

09-08-98