Swing Vote Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A perpetually unemployed dad accidentally becomes the decider of the US presidential election because his daughter is too civically engaged for her own good, forcing him to pretend to care about politics while two candidates shower him with attention, mostly involving fast food and beer.

🍿 Swing Vote: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Apathy and a Daughter’s Hope

Bud Johnson, a lovable but apathetic slacker living in Texico, New Mexico, is the father of the precocious and politically engaged Molly. Molly is frustrated by her father’s lack of interest in civic duties, especially voting, which she sees as crucial. She wants him to participate in the upcoming presidential election.

The Pivotal Glitch

On Election Day, Bud fails to show up to vote due to his irresponsible behavior. Determined, Molly attempts to vote for him, but a power outage causes a glitch, invalidating the ballot. Unbeknownst to them, the presidential election hinges on New Mexico’s electoral votes, and the election is tied.

One Vote Decides It All

It’s revealed that Bud’s incomplete vote is the deciding factor in the election. Media, political strategists, and both presidential candidates descend upon Texico, turning Bud’s life upside down. The candidates begin pandering to Bud, shifting their stances to gain his favor. This whirlwind forces Bud, with Molly’s help, to confront his apathy and take responsibility.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Bud Johnson (Kevin Costner): A beer-loving slacker whose apathetic existence is upended when he becomes the single deciding vote in a presidential election.
• Molly Johnson (Madeline Carroll): Bud’s civically-minded and precocious daughter who strives to make her father understand the importance of his vote.
• President Andrew Boone (Kelsey Grammer): The Republican incumbent president who is willing to bend his policies to win Bud’s crucial vote.
• Donald Greenleaf (Dennis Hopper): The Democratic presidential candidate prepared to shift his stances in order to secure Bud’s decisive vote.
• Kate Madison (Paula Patton): An ambitious local TV reporter who breaks the story of Bud’s pivotal vote and develops a connection with him and Molly.
• Martin Fox (Stanley Tucci): President Boone’s campaign manager willing to manipulate the situation to ensure his candidate’s victory.
• Art Crumb (Nathan Lane): Donald Greenleaf’s campaign manager who stoops to conquer at any cost to get Bud’s vote.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Bud Johnson: “Does this mean I’m gonna have to do jury duty?” – Bud’s initial apathetic reaction upon learning his vote will decide the election, highlighting his initial disinterest in civic responsibility.
• Molly Johnson: “If nobody votes, nothing’s gonna change.” – Molly expresses her frustration at her father’s apathy and highlights the importance of voting.
• Bud Johnson: “I figure, if they’re gonna lie to me, I wanna be sober enough to know it.” – Bud explains his approach to listening to the presidential candidates, suggesting a cynical but aware perspective.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $21,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $16,289,867
• Worldwide Gross: $17,635,397

💥 Swing Vote Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching ‘Swing Vote’ during a particularly turbulent election year, and it really struck a chord. It’s easy to get cynical about politics, but the film’s optimistic message about the power of the individual, even a flawed one, was truly inspiring. I particularly enjoyed the scenes where Bud is trying to understand the issues. The scene where his daughter confronts her mom has had a powerful impact on my political views. It is a movie that made me think more deeply about my responsibilities as a voter.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Kevin Costner”
  • “Viewers interested in political comedies”
  • “Those who appreciate heartwarming stories about family and civic responsibility”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “References to alcohol abuse”
  • “Political themes”

Professional Reviews

• Roger Ebert: “Swing Vote’s charm lies in its well-meaning heart and Kevin Costner’s believable portrayal of a flawed, yet likable everyman. It navigates the difficult terrain of political satire with a light touch, offering moments of genuine humor and thoughtful reflection on civic duty.
• Variety: “Despite a talented cast, ‘Swing Vote’ struggles to balance its comedic premise with its earnest message. While Costner delivers a solid performance, the film ultimately feels heavy-handed in its political commentary and lacks the sharp wit needed for true satire.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Swing Vote is good, but it could have been great. Costner is charming. But the movie is weighed down by dead-end soap opera subplots about Costner’s daughter’s boyfriend from school and her attempt to live with her estranged mother.

Audience Reactions

Kevin Costner’s performance as the lovable loser Bud Johnson was great.: The film’s blend of humor and heart made it a feel-good movie.

The movie’s message about the importance of voting was really inspirational.: Many viewers found the film’s take on political pandering to be sharp and relevant.

Overall Consensus: Swing Vote is a well-intentioned but somewhat flawed political comedy-drama that offers moments of genuine heart and humor but occasionally struggles with its tone and message.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Kevin Costner was heavily involved in the film’s production, reportedly using his own money to ensure it was completed and released.”
• “The film explores themes of political apathy and the importance of civic engagement, aiming to encourage viewers to participate in the electoral process.”
• “Richard Petty and Willie Nelson made cameo appearances in the movie.”

🖥️ How to Watch Swing Vote?

Swing Vote is available for streaming and purchase on various platforms. You can find it on services like Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, and Google Play Movies. Check these platforms for rental and purchase options. Availability may vary depending on your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Swing Vote, you might like these similar films:

• Dave (1993): An ordinary man thrust into a position of power and responsibility in the White House.
• Wag the Dog (1997): Satirical look at political spin and media manipulation during a presidential election.
• Man of the Year (2006): A comedian unexpectedly becomes a presidential candidate and wins the election.

🛒 Swing Vote Related Products

• Swing Vote [Blu-ray]: Own the movie in high definition! Perfect for re-watching and sparking conversations about civic responsibility and the power of the individual vote.
• Swing Vote Movie Poster: A high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster. Ideal for decorating a home theater or office and showing your appreciation for this thought-provoking film.
• Swing Vote T-Shirt: Show your love for the movie and its message with this comfortable and stylish t-shirt.
• Funko Pop! Bud Johnson: Get a Funko Pop! of Bud Johnson. Fans of the movie will love to display.

🎧 Soundtrack

Swing Vote features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Can’t You See” – performed by The Marshall Tucker Band

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Swing Vote – Kevin Costner & Madeline Carrol

Ever wonder what the actors really thought about making ‘Swing Vote’? Check out this interview with Kevin Costner and Madeline Carroll – it’s cool to hear their perspective on the film and the characters they played!

Another Funny Campaign Ad Spoof

Need a quick laugh? This unreleased clip from ‘Swing Vote’ featuring Dennis Hopper is hilarious! His comedic timing is on point, definitely worth a watch if you enjoyed the movie’s humor.

Election Touchscreen Map Takes Deeper Look Inside Key Swing Voter | Onion News Network

Want a funny take on the whole ‘swing voter’ concept? The Onion’s got you covered with this satirical news report! It’s a hilarious exaggeration of the pressure one voter can face, you may find yourself chuckling!

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