The Candidate

A charismatic lawyer, seeking to maintain his liberal ideals, is persuaded to run for the U.S. Senate. As the campaign progresses, he finds himself compromising his principles to win, leading to a crisis of conscience. The film satirizes the American political process and the compromises it demands.

The Candidate was widely praised for its sharp political satire, Robert Redford's compelling performance, and its prescient depiction of campaign tactics. Critics noted its dark humor and its insightful, albeit cynical, look at the nature of political ambition and the sacrifices made to achieve power.

• Robert Redford delivers a career-defining performance as a politician losing his soul.

• The film offers a sharp, witty, and uncomfortably accurate portrayal of modern campaigning.

• Its blend of satire and drama remains relevant and thought-provoking.

Google audience: Audiences generally lauded the film's sharp satire on politics and Robert Redford's nuanced performance. Many appreciated its cynical yet humorous take on the compromises inherent in political campaigns.

Won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay (Jeremy Larner). Nominated for Best Actor (Robert Redford) and Best Sound.

During the filming of the presidential election night scene, Robert Redford was actually campaigning for George McGovern's 1972 presidential bid, and the crowd's cheers for 'The Candidate' were genuine reactions to him.