Miss. Sloane (2016)
Miss. Sloane is a stellar portrayal of a woman at the top of her game and prepared to do whatever it takes to win. It's about the blurred lines between good and bad, the cost of winning, and Jessica Chastain has never been better.
What is Miss. Sloane about?
In the high-stakes world of political power-brokers, Elizabeth Sloane is the most sought after and formidable lobbyist in D.C. But when taking on the most powerful opponent of her career, she finds winning may come at too high a price. (from IMDB)
My review of Miss. Sloane
The sets are gorgeous. The cinematography is excellent, and the costumes are fantastic. I seriously wish I had Sloane's wardrobe; those outfits are to die for, and they look incredible on her. Chastain's colouring is so stunning, and everything she wears in the film - including her makeup - accentuates that.
The dialogue crackles with wit, and is as smooth and sleek as every other aspect in the film. Sometimes it's too produced - just too sharp and unrealistic, but it’s still irresistible and entertaining. And in a political thriller like this, I think smooth, witty dialogue works well anyway.
The whole movie is fierce and passionate, but the start is extremely powerful. The action begins right away, the cinematography showcases the start of Sloane's day with a haunting sequence of scenes, and Chastain's at the forefront of it all - sleek, sexy, and leading the cast and the plot. It's perfection.
The story is utterly gripping. Well structured, twists right until the end, and it determinedly balances heartbreak, suspense, tragedy, and female empowerment. It's thought provoking, and despite the premise is not so much about the gun-safety issue than it is about the cost of ambition and relentless pursuit of achievement - no matter the damage it inflicts upon ourselves or the people around us.
Jessica Chastain in Miss. Sloane | from IMDB
The cast is terrific. Mark Strong is a reliable strength behind Chastain, and Gugu Mbatha-Raw gives a beautifully tender yet strong performance. But, without a doubt, this film is Chastain's.
She's sensational. Stunning, terrifying, and utterly alluring. She brings Sloane's brokenness right alongside the character's ferocity, and I was surprised to find myself rooting for the unlikeable heroine right until the end. Yes, Sloane makes bad choices, and yes she steps on anyone to get her way, but you have to admire her determination, intelligence, and seething tenaciousness. For a women in what was - and perhaps still is - a largely male dominated field, Sloane's ambition, intelligence, and resilience is remarkable. I didn't always like her methods, and I didn't like her character (although I frequently felt sorry for her) but I respected and admired her for her capability and foresight. She's a flawed, broken woman and she isn't the nicest person, but she's got gumption and she knows her stuff.
But Sloane's brilliance is in no way an excuse for her faults, and although it does come close, the movie doesn't condones her rudeness, cruelty, and downright arrogant persona. Sloane's called out on those faults by the other characters - particularly Esme - and she gradually realises her mistakes and comes to regret things she's done and said. I think that's important to notice.
Sloane aside, characters like Esme and Jane are equally feministic and inspiring. A contrast to Sloane, they have somewhat quieter strengths, and I love how these personalities aren’t overshadowed by Sloane nor made to appear weaker and less admirable.
