Bulworth (1998)

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A suicidally disillusioned liberal politician puts a contract out on himself and takes the opportunity to be bluntly honest with his voters by affecting the rhythms and speech of hip-hop music and culture.

Introduction
"Bulworth" is a 1998 American political satirical funny movie co-written, co-produced, directed by, and starring Warren Beatty. It follows the tale of a suicidal and disillusioned Senator Jay Bulworth, who decides to speak his mind easily at public events after putting a gigantic life insurance coverage policy on himself.

Plot Summary
The story happens during the 1996 election, including Jay Bulworth (Warren Beatty), a Democratic senator from California who has actually been associated with politics for years. However, now suffering from burnout, disillusionment, and severe anxiety, he decides to put a contract out on his own life and takes a $10 million life insurance policy to ensure his child will have a secure future.

Expecting to be dead in a couple of days, Bulworth chooses to speak his mind freely throughout his last campaign trip. He starts by making forthright statements at African American and Jewish communities that shock everybody, including his campaign staff. Nevertheless, his honesty resonates with citizens, and his appeal grows.

Amidst his political transformation, Bulworth meets Nina (Halle Berry), a young African-American female with whom he establishes an unforeseen relationship. She opens his eyes to the realities facing various racial and social groups in the country, causing his change into a hip-hop spouting character who talks in rhyme.

Vital Reception
Unbeknownst to Bulworth, Nina has been hired by an insurance coverage lobbyist to keep Bulworth safe till his new policy goes into result. Nevertheless, she falls for him and alerts him of the impending assassination attempt. The assassin ends up being a disgruntled insurance representative who is then taken down by Bulworth's security team.

"Bulworth" ends with the senator's rejuvenation and newfound hope, feeling no need to adhere to popular stories, engaging the public with raw sincerity. The story concludes with a cliffhanger- Bulworth being shot by a strange foe after his TV argument, leaving the audience wondering if he made it through or not.

Evaluation
"Bulworth" is a sharply satirical commentary on the political landscape in America. It employs humor and shocking candor to tackle severe concerns like race relations, class disparities, and the impact of cash on politics with poignancy and wit. Warren Beatty's standout efficiency provides a balance to the character, moving convincingly between moments of anguish, knowledge, and comic change. The film's ending leaves a lasting impression, underlining its main message about the state of politics and society. It earned the very best Original Screenplay nomination at the 71st Academy Awards.

From its wry criticisms to its hip-hop-infused story, "Bulworth" is an amusing, thought-provoking film that challenges the status quo, making it appropriate even after 20 years considering that its release.

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