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Primary Colors
1998 143 min France, Germany, Japan, United Kingdom, United States of America R 12+
★7.2
Drama, Comedy
Director: Mike Nichols
🎭 Based on
«Primary Colors»
byJoe Klein
Trailers
EN
EN
Description
In this adaptation of the best-selling roman à clef about Bill Clinton's 1992 run for the White House, the young and gifted Henry Burton is tapped to oversee the presidential campaign of Governor Jack Stanton. Burton is pulled into the politician's colorful world and looks on as Stanton -- who has a wandering eye that could be his downfall -- contends with his ambitious wife, Susan, and an outspoken adviser, Richard Jemmons.
Budget:
$65M
US Gross:
$39M
Worldwide:
$52.09M
Starring
John Travolta
Actor
Emma Thompson
Actor
Kathy Bates
Actor
Awards
BAFTA 1999
— Best Adapted Screenplay
Screen Actors Guild Awards 1999
— Best Supporting Actress
Academy Awards 1999
— Best Adapted Screenplay
BAFTA 1999
— Best Supporting Actress
Golden Globe 1999
— Best Supporting Actress
Screen Actors Guild Awards 1999
— Best Supporting Actress
Golden Globe 1999
— Best Actor (Comedy or Musical)
European Film Awards 1998
— World Cinema Achievement
Key opinion
Primary Colors offers a compelling, character-driven examination of political idealism versus the pragmatic rot of campaigning. While the film is anchored by John Travolta’s charismatic performance, it draws polarized reactions regarding its narrative focus and overall cohesion.
| Acting | John Travolta provides a masterclass in duality, effectively capturing the blend of warmth and moral bankruptcy required for a presidential candidate. | |
| Theme | The film succeeds as a cynical yet realistic portrait of how the machinery of political campaigns forces the erosion of individual moral principles. | |
| Acting | The ensemble cast, particularly Kathy Bates and Emma Thompson, provides strong, nuanced support that elevates the film's character dynamics. | |
| Screenplay | The film’s narrative structure is frequently criticized for lacking tight cohesion, leading to a viewing experience that feels disjointed or fragmented. | |
| Pacing | The film's pacing and duration are points of contention; some viewers appreciate its authentic immersion in campaign life, while others find the film overlong and prone to sagging. |