Election (1999)

January 30, 2025

Have you ever found yourself laughing so hard at the absurdity of a situation that you forget to breathe? If not, you might want to grab a slice of humble pie and settle in for a viewing of “Election,” a dark comedy that serves up a deliciously chaotic look into high school politics and human ambition. Released in 1999 and directed by Alexander Payne, “Election” is a film that captures the frantic energy of adolescence, the annoying yet relatable desire for popularity, and the ever-present shadow of ambition in a way that feels as fresh today as it did over two decades ago.

At the heart of “Election” is an exuberant and overachieving student council candidate named Tracy Flick, played with relentless energy by the incomparable Reese Witherspoon. Tracy is the quintessential overzealous student; she’s fiercely driven, annoyingly perfect, and just a tad manipulative. You can’t help but feel a strange mix of admiration and exasperation towards her. As she battles for the presidency of her high school against the charming yet apathetic jock, Paul Metzler—an equally relatable character brought to life by Chris Klein—viewers find themselves drawn into an election campaign that spirals beyond the typical high school drama. It’s like watching a live-action chess game where the pieces are all a bit unhinged.

Then, there’s Jim McAllister, the beleaguered teacher played by Matthew Broderick, who becomes entangled in this whirlwind of teenage ambition and moral dilemmas. His dry wit and subtle exasperation create a perfect counterbalance to Tracy’s relentless drive. The chemistry between Broderick and Witherspoon is electric, their rivalry oscillating between hilarity and genuine tension as they try to outmaneuver each other in increasingly ridiculous ways. With every misstep and strategic play, the stakes in this seemingly benign election rise—drawing us deeper into their quirky world.

What makes “Election” stand out is how it expertly blurs the line between comedy and drama, creating a unique storytelling style that feels almost like a heightened reality. With Payne’s sharp direction, the film delves into the absurdities of high school life, capturing the quirks of adolescence with a satirical edge. There’s a delightfully uncomfortable tension that pervades the film, making you want to laugh while also cringing at the very real consequences of ambition gone awry. The humor is often dark and the social commentary razor-sharp, shedding light on the lengths individuals will go to achieve their dreams—even at the cost of friendships and moral integrity.

The writing in “Election” is nothing short of brilliant, with clever dialogue and memorable one-liners that stick with you well after the credits roll. The film is filled with iconic moments, like Tracy’s relentless campaign tactics or Jim’s increasingly desperate attempts to thwart her. Each scene unfolds like a well-crafted joke, perfectly timed to elicit laughter while also forcing the audience to reflect on the underlying themes of ambition, ethics, and the quest for power. Payne’s direction and the skillful writing result in a profound exploration of human nature, wrapped in layers of wit and irony that make the film so enjoyable.

Visually, “Election” offers a distinctive style that enhances its storytelling. Shot by cinematographer Eric Edwards, the film employs a palette that feels vibrant and youthful, echoing the chaotic energy of high school life. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting brings an intimacy to the characters, making us feel like voyeurs peeking into their lives. The production design is equally noteworthy, with the mundane settings of a high school played up to contrast the larger-than-life personalities which inhabit them. It’s a world that feels familiar yet exaggerated—much like the characters themselves.

As for the themes that run through “Election,” they are as relevant today as ever. The film dives into the essence of ambition and the moral compromises people make on their journey to success. It challenges viewers to consider the impact of their choices and the price of relentless pursuit. Tracy embodies the single-minded ambition that many can relate to, while Jim serves as a cautionary tale of what happens when ambition turns into obsession. It’s a reflection of society’s sometimes troubling fixation on success, a theme that resonates with anyone who has navigated their own competitive environments.

In wrapping up, “Election” is not just a movie; it’s a zany rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of teenage life, ambition, and the often messy intersections of morality and success. It’s a film that makes you laugh, cringe, and ultimately contemplate the nature of ambition. Whether it’s your first viewing or a nostalgic rewatch, there’s no denying that “Election” captures the chaos of life in a way that is both entertaining and insightful. So grab your popcorn, prepare for a few unexpected twists, and immerse yourself in the hilariously twisted world of Tracy Flick and her high school campaign. You won’t regret it—after all, who wouldn’t want to take a front-row seat to the madness of “Election”?