Decade and half after being introduced to democracy, many people in Eastern Europe aren't particularly satisfied with it and often express their displeasure by staying away from voting booths. When asked why, the most common answer could be summed up in "all politicians are crooks". Protagonist of The Distinguished Gentleman, 1992 political comedy directed by Jonathan Lynn, is having the same opinion after a lifetime in one of the world's oldest democracies.
Thomas Jefferson Johnson (played by Eddie Murphy) is a Florida con man who accidentally overhears Jefferson Johnson (played by James Garner), local congressman whose immense popularity matches only his greed and corruption. That conversation, in which congressman describes financial opportunities of his position, leaves much impression on the con man who shares his name. When congressman dies in the middle of re-election campaign, con man quickly enters the race and uses name recognition to get elected in Congress. In Washington he becomes protege of Dick Dodge (played by Lane Smith), chairman of the powerful Congress committee. Johnson begins to enjoy all kinds of privileges and lobbyists bring him enormous amounts of money. But when he meets Celia Kirby (played by Victoria Rowell), attractive and idealistic activist, everything changes and Johnson decides to do what he was elected to do - represent people instead of special interests.
Scriptwriter Marty Kaplan used to write speeches for former US vice-president Walter Mondale and had good insight into Washington politics. Jonathan Lynn is British director who created reputation with Yes, Minister and Yes, Prime Minister, TV shows that satirised British politics. Combination of their experiences, insights and talents benefited from the presence of Eddie Murphy, actor whose street-smart image looked incompatible with roles more suitable for actors like Jimmy Stewart. Murphy knew how to adapt his comedic talents and tone down his rawness for this comedy about serious issues. In doing so he was aided by talented cast, including Lane Smith as very effective villain. Unfortunately, the film was less effective than it should have been, mostly due to sudden and unexplained shift from cynicism to idealism in lead character. Victoria Rowell, despite her looks, isn't satisfying explanation and even with it, the movie is less convincing in the second part. As a whole, however, The Distinguished Gentleman works, showing that Hollywood still can combine humour with important social commentary.
RATING: 5/10 (++)
(Note: The text in its original form was posted in Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on February 12th 2004)
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