Last Party 2000
Filmed over the last six months of the 2000 Presidential election, Phillip Seymour Hoffman starts documenting the campaign at the Republican and Democratic National Conventions, but spends more time outside, in the street protests and police actions than in the orchestrated conventions. Hoffman shows an obvious distaste for money politics and the conservative right. He looks seedier and more disillusioned the campaign progresses. Eventually Hoffman seems most energized by the Ralph Nader campaign as an alternative to the nearly indistinguishable major parties. The high point of the film are the comments by Barney Frank who says that marches and demonstrations are largely a waste of time, and that the really effective political players such as the NRA and the AARP never bother with walk ins, sit-ins, shoot-ins or shuffles. In the interview with Jesse Jackson, Hoffman is too flustered to ask all of his questions.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary captures the chaotic and ultimately melancholic atmosphere surrounding the 2000 US Presidential Election. It follows the final days of the Clinton administration and the controversial recount in Florida, interweaving observations from various celebrities and political figures attending a lavish New Year's Eve party hosted by comedian Chris Smith.
Critical Reception
Last Party 2000 received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising its unique access and candid moments, while some found its chaotic structure and celebrity-centric approach unfocused. It's generally considered an interesting, albeit somewhat indulgent, snapshot of a pivotal and contentious political moment.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its fly-on-the-wall access to a unique political and celebrity gathering.
- Noted for capturing a sense of disillusionment and absurdity surrounding the 2000 election.
- Some critics found the film unfocused and overly reliant on its celebrity guests.
Google audience: Audiences generally found the film to be an amusing and insightful, albeit somewhat aimless, look at the end of an era in American politics, appreciating the candid moments and celebrity cameos.
Fun Fact
The film's director, Chris Smith, also famously hosted the New Year's Eve party featured in the documentary, inviting a wide array of politicians, celebrities, and journalists to ring in the new millennium.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources