Yet another week that promises to be chock full of politics is upon us. But this week is different... because this week ends on an opening. That's right, Oliver Stone's much-hyped film W. that comically chronicles George W. Bush's rise and fall, launches this Friday.


From the movie's official Web site, the synopsis reads: "Whether you love him or hate him, there is no question that George W. Bush is one of the most controversial public figures in recent memory. In an unprecedented undertaking, Oliver Stone is bringing the life of our 43rd President to the big screen as only he can. W. takes viewers through Bush's eventful life–his struggles and triumphs, how he found both his wife and his faith, and of course the critical days leading up to Bush's decision to invade Iraq."
Yes, I'm intending on seeing the film and, yes, I'm well aware that a movie "based on a true story" may not include the entire story (or may not get the story entirely right). But I want to ask you, my fellow marketers, your thoughts:
Do you predict the movie will soar, or sink? Is the film a brilliant move on Oliver Stone's part... or is the film debuting at a time when an already politically overloaded nation is worn-out on all things "W."? And let's not forget how citizens--regardless of political persuasions--are still reeling from the economic chaos and thusly watching their disposable dollars more than ever (with entertainment being one of the first items cut in a times of concern).
According to Oliver Stone, "I want a fair, true portrait of the man. How did Bush go from an alcoholic bum to the most powerful figure in the world? It's like Frank Capra territory on one hand, but I'll also cover the demons in his private life, his bouts with his dad and his conversion to Christianity, which explains a lot of where he is coming from. It includes his belief that God personally chose him to be president of the United States, and his coming into his own with the stunning, preemptive attack on Iraq. It will contain surprises for Bush supporters and his detractors."
Obviously the box-office will be the ultimate barometer of the movie's success. But I thought it would be fun for us to predict how well releasing a movie on a President--who is, in fact, still the President at the time of its release--will fare.
One of my predictions? If Josh Brolin, the lead actor portraying George W. Bush, is as remarkable in his acting as he is in his makeup, I'm betting he'll land an Oscar nomination (I find the resemblance uncanny).
We'll soon see if our predictions play out...in the meantime, here's the two-minute trailer for your to enjoy. (And for a NYT article on the movie and Stone, with an audio interview, just go here)