On this day, January 31, 1986, Power premiered in theaters. Directed by the legendary Sidney Lumet, the film starred an ensemble cast including Richard Gere, Julie Christie, Gene Hackman, Kate Capshaw, and Denzel Washington. This political drama delved into the world of media manipulation, public relations, and the power dynamics in modern society.
Richard Gere portrayed Pete St. John, a high-profile political consultant who navigates the ethically murky waters of influencing public opinion and political campaigns. With sharp performances and an incisive script, Power offered a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of power, politics, and morality.
Despite its $16 million budget, the film underperformed at the box office, grossing only $3.8 million, but it remains a compelling entry in Lumet’s catalog of socially conscious films.
Fun Fact: Power marked one of Denzel Washington’s early roles in a major film, showcasing his talent before he rose to stardom in the late 80s and 90s.
Trivia Question: What other Sidney Lumet film, released in the 1970s, is considered a masterpiece for its critique of media and television?
Richard Gere portrayed Pete St. John, a high-profile political consultant who navigates the ethically murky waters of influencing public opinion and political campaigns. With sharp performances and an incisive script, Power offered a thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of power, politics, and morality.
Despite its $16 million budget, the film underperformed at the box office, grossing only $3.8 million, but it remains a compelling entry in Lumet’s catalog of socially conscious films.
Fun Fact: Power marked one of Denzel Washington’s early roles in a major film, showcasing his talent before he rose to stardom in the late 80s and 90s.
Trivia Question: What other Sidney Lumet film, released in the 1970s, is considered a masterpiece for its critique of media and television?