Weiner Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A politician with a funny last name tries to make a comeback but his, uh, *assets* keep getting in the way.

🍿 Weiner: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Rise and Fall of a Congressman

The documentary opens by showcasing Anthony Weiner’s initial success as a Democratic Congressman from New York, known for his passionate advocacy and fiery speeches. It then swiftly transitions to the scandal that derailed his career: the revelation that he had been sending sexually suggestive photos and messages to women online. This scandal led to his resignation in 2011, leaving his political future in tatters.

A Second Chance: Running for Mayor

Two years after his resignation, Weiner attempts a political comeback by running for Mayor of New York City in 2013. The film crew is granted unprecedented access to his campaign, capturing the behind-the-scenes efforts to rehabilitate his image and convince voters to give him a second chance. Initially, his campaign gains traction, and he even becomes a frontrunner in the race.

Another Scandal Erupts

Midway through the mayoral campaign, another sexting scandal surfaces, this time involving more recent exchanges with a woman using the pseudonym “Carlos Danger.” This revelation throws the campaign into chaos and exposes the deep-seated issues that Weiner is struggling to overcome. The documentary captures the raw and immediate fallout, showing the impact on his staff, his family, and his political aspirations.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Anthony Weiner (Self): A disgraced former Congressman attempting a political comeback as New York City mayor, haunted by past and present sexting scandals.
• Huma Abedin (Self): Anthony Weiner’s wife and Hillary Clinton’s aide, grappling with the public humiliation and personal betrayal caused by her husband’s actions.
• Barbara Morgan (Self): Weiner’s Communications Director, struggling to manage the fallout from the ongoing scandals while trying to maintain a professional campaign image.
• Camille Joseph (Self): Weiner’s Campaign Manager, tasked with the impossible job of steering a campaign constantly derailed by scandal.
• Sydney Leathers (Self): The woman who exposed her online relationship with Weiner, becoming a central figure in the second sexting scandal that derailed his mayoral campaign.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Anthony Weiner: “It takes one to know one, jackass.” – Weiner’s retort after being called an ‘asshole’ by a stranger on the street, showcasing his confrontational style.
• Huma Abedin: “It’s like living a nightmare.” – Huma Abedin expressing her emotional distress as the second sexting scandal erupts during Weiner’s mayoral campaign.
• Lawrence O’Donnell: “What’s wrong with you?” – MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell directly questioning Weiner about his behavior in a tense interview.
• Anthony Weiner: “Why did you let me film this?” – Josh Kriegman, the co-director, asking Weiner why he allowed the filming to proceed during such a difficult time.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: $1,676,108
• Worldwide Gross: $1,715,955

💥 Weiner Reviews

Personal Review

I went into this movie expecting to laugh, but I ended up feeling… uncomfortable. It’s like watching a car crash you can’t look away from. Seeing Weiner and Huma’s interactions, especially as things fall apart, is just heartbreaking. I actually felt bad for everyone involved. This isn’t just about politics, it’s about human beings and their struggles.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Viewers interested in politics and political scandals”
  • “Fans of documentary films with behind-the-scenes access”
  • “Those interested in character studies and public figures facing controversy”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Discussion of sexual topics and explicit content”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Mature themes related to infidelity and public humiliation”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “A gripping, cringe-inducing look at a political campaign derailed by scandal. The filmmakers gained unprecedented access, capturing the raw emotions and behind-the-scenes drama as Weiner’s past catches up to him.
• Rolling Stone: “A searing portrait of a man unable to escape his own demons. ‘Weiner’ is more than just a political documentary; it’s a character study of ambition, hubris, and the destructive power of self-inflicted wounds.
• Variety: “A fascinating and disturbing look at a political train wreck in slow motion. The film is well-edited and offers unique access, and it also raises important questions about media ethics and public perceptions of politicians.

Audience Reactions

The behind-the-scenes access is insane – you feel like you’re actually in the room with them.: Viewers were shocked by the level of access granted by Weiner, providing an unvarnished look at the campaign’s collapse.

Huma Abedin is the real star of the movie; her strength and composure are incredible to watch.: Many viewers sympathized with Huma Abedin, finding her strength in the face of public humiliation admirable.

Overall Consensus: A compelling and often uncomfortable documentary that provides an inside look at the rise and fall of Anthony Weiner, raising questions about media, politics, and personal responsibility.

Awards

1. Sundance Film Festival (Grand Jury Prize: Documentary)- 2016

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Directors Josh Kriegman and Elyse Steinberg were given unprecedented access to Weiner and his campaign, partly because Kriegman had previously served as Weiner’s chief of staff.”
• “Anthony Weiner declined to endorse the completed film upon release and claimed he had no intention of even seeing the documentary, adding “I already know how it ends.””
• “The filmmakers captured footage so personal and intense that at one point in the film, Kriegman asks Weiner why he is even allowing them to continue shooting.”

🖥️ How to Watch Weiner?

As a documentary film, “Weiner” is often available for streaming or purchase on platforms that feature independent and documentary films. Check services like Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, or your local cable provider’s on-demand options. Availability may vary depending on your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Weiner, you might like these similar films:

• The War Room (1993): Offers a behind-the-scenes look at Bill Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign, similar to the access granted in ‘Weiner’.
• All the President’s Men (1976): Explores the role of the media in uncovering political scandal, a key theme also present in ‘Weiner’.
• Icarus (2017): Deals with themes of political scandal, ambition, and consequences, revealing the dark side of institutions.
• No Lies (1973): Showcases the dangers of unchecked power and manipulation, mirroring elements within Weiner’s story.

🛒 Weiner Related Products

• Anthony Weiner: From Congressman to Conman: A tell-all e-book delving into the scandals, controversies, and behind-the-scenes stories of Anthony Weiner’s life and political career. The eBook explores the impact of his actions on his family, his career, and the broader political landscape.
• Weiner Dog Plush Toy: A cute and cuddly dachshund stuffed animal, inspired by the movie’s title. This high-quality plush is the perfect addition to any collection, bringing a touch of humor and warmth to your home. The Weiner Dog Plush Toy serves as a conversation starter about the film’s themes and cultural impact.
• Political Scandal Board Game: A strategic board game where players navigate the treacherous world of politics, dealing with scandals, media scrutiny, and public opinion to win elections. Featuring cards inspired by real-life events, this game tests your political acumen and crisis management skills. The Political Scandal Board Game is engaging and educational, offering insights into the challenges of political campaigns.
• I Heart Huma T-Shirt: A t-shirt with an “I Heart Huma” logo to support the unsung hero of the Weiner documentary and Hillary Clinton’s long time aide.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “In 3s” – performed by Beastie Boys

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Huma Abedin on Addiction and If She Thinks Anthony Weiner Can Ever Change

Ever wondered what it was *really* like to be married to Anthony Weiner during all the scandals? Huma Abedin gets super candid about their relationship and his struggles – it’s a really human look at a very public drama.

UNHINGED: Anthony Weiner Has a Meltdown When Asked About Clinton’s Kill List Allegation

This is wild! Watch Anthony Weiner completely lose it during a debate. It’s pretty intense and gives you a real sense of his personality and how he handles pressure – you have to see it to believe it.

✨ Rate