Just months before announcing his bid for the presidency, George W. Bush bought a ranch in the small town of Crawford, Texas. Taking to the down home, aw-shucks personality that helped charm/divide the nation, Bush took full advantage of his time in Crawford. In fact, combine the city with a few hanging chads and many would say that the city was a vital card played, possibly single handedly landing him in the White House. But now, after two elections, the War of Terrorism, a heap of press and protestors and a force in the name of Nancy Sheehan and the town of Crawford is well over the fact that the President calls their town home.
Told through the eyes of a handful of Crawford citizens, Crawford takes a personal look at what so many filmmakers have tried to catch on film, a humane look at the effects that a person can have on an entire town. His approach is real and his footage is raw, creating a force in the highly competitive field of films based on the topic of President George W. Bush.
If there is one film genre that documentary filmmakers have worn dry it is the US government, especially the effects of George W. Bush as the nation's President. However, with that said I have to admit that David Modigliani has brought a new outlook on the topic as he goes inside the people's eyes, staying clear of the camera and really bringing a humane, personable aspect to the screen. His style and approach is unique as he gets to the heart of his subjects, building their trust and concentrating on what is there, not what he wants to be there.
However, I have to admit that it wasn't only Modigliani who helped the film propel but the combination of him with his cast from the town in question. Getting input from everyone ranging from a local priest to a local high school history teacher, Modigliani is able to get everyone's aspect and cross the political barriers that tend to separate so many films. Each subject speaks their mind, giving into emotion and at times losing themselves as their hearts are put on the line for all to see.
The outcome was anything but expected and the viewpoints were intriguing as a new angle to the overused concept was presented and director David Modigliani makes his mark on the world of filmmaking. Do yourself a favor and be sure to catch this film, you will not be disappointed.
