DAVE

CAPSULE REVIEW –– Politics and comedy aren't usually such companionable bedfellows, but Kline and company use them both to their best advantage in this funny and intelligent film. The premise starts out silly enough. Kline plays Dave, a job recruiter with an uncanny resemblance to the current President (also Kline), who is coerced into impersonating the pres to avert a major scandal that would plunge the country into chaos. His time in the White House is meant to be temporary, but a twist of fate forces him to take on the role in a more permanent capacity until White House advisors can solve the dilemma in a satisfactory manor. The situation gets even more crazy when Dave decides to try to fix the country's problems, which doesn't sit well with President Mitchell's team who was using their power for their own gain. The film gets somewhat heavy-handed at the end with its "let's help the people" message and the office intrigue, but for the most part is a cleverly written story about the workings of our government and the toll it takes on a man's soul. Kline is wonderful in both roles as the kind and caring regular Joe and the arrogant, unfeeling leader of the free world. It's one of his best films to date. Langella gives the other standout performance as the corrupt chief of staff. A first-rate effort from Reitman, et al. A film to seek out.