Last weekend, I enjoyed some down time and caught up on a couple of movies I had wanted to see for quite a while. I enjoyed both films for very different reasons.
The Butler told the story of one man who escaped the racism of the South to ultimately become a member of the White House staff. The film was a powerful history lesson through the eyes of those who silently watched behind the scenes. I especially enjoyed the depiction of the Civil Rights era and the butler’s relationship with President Kennedy. As the story progressed into the 21st century, I felt as though the film became a decidedly political piece. I wasn’t offended by the inclusion of Obama’s presidency, but I did find it beyond the scope of the movie’s basic plot. Honestly, I think The Butler would have been a much more powerful film if it had ended with the lead character’s retirement from the White House.