Filmium
Back to search
Movie Backdrop

The Contender streaming

2000 Movie United States, Germany, United Kingdom Drama, Thriller 126 min Ages 13+
By: Rod Lurie With: Jeff Bridges, Gary Oldman, Christian Slater, Joan Allen, Sam Elliott

A political thriller about Laine Hanson, a Senator who is nominated to become Vice President following the death of the previous office holder. During the confirmation process, Laine is the victim of a vicious attack on her personal life in which stories of sexual deviancy are spread. She is torn as to whether she should fight back, or stick to her high principles and refuse to comment on the allegations.

Filmium rating
69%

Mood

Dramatic
Political
Serious
Tense
Thought-Provoking

Cast & Crew

Rod Lurie
Christian Slater
Gary Oldman
Joan Allen
Jeff Bridges
Saul Rubinek
Sam Elliott
William Petersen
Academy Award Nominees
Strong Performances

Budget

Mid-Budget

Cinematic Technique

Authentic Settings
Close-Ups
Dialogue-Heavy
Filmed In Rain
Interview Scenes
Natural Lighting

Narrative Structure

Accessible
Character-Driven
Linear
Straightforward

Pace

Dialogue-Driven
Dialogue-Heavy
Engaging
Measured
Moderate

Runtime

Moderate Length

Soundtrack

Inspirational Music

Style

Dialogue-Driven
Political Drama
Realistic

Time-Period

Early 2000S

Central Conflict

Confirmation Controversy
Gender Bias
Nomination Challenges
Personal Past Accusations
Political Integrity
Political Opposition

Characters

Congressman
Female Senator
Politicians
President

Ending

Ambiguous
Contemplative
Hopeful
Political Victory
Resilient
Triumphant

Historical Context

2000 U.S. Presidential Election
Lewinsky Scandal

Key Plot Points

Background Scandal
Fbi Report
Hanson'S Nomination
Presidential Address
Senate Hearings

Plot

Confirmation Hearings
Gender Dynamics
Integrity
Political Maneuvering
Political Scandal
Presidential Succession

Setting

Political Context
Washington D.C.
White House

Shooting Location

Virginia
Washington D.C.

Theme

Female Empowerment
Gender Dynamics
Integrity In Politics
Leadership Challenges
Media Manipulation
Political Integrity

Genre

Biographical
Character-Driven
Political Drama
Thriller

Audiences

Adults
Drama Viewers
Gender Issues
Political Drama Enthusiasts
Political Enthusiasts

Titles

A manipulátor
Manipulations
Rufmord - Jenseits der Moral
The Contender
挑拨性丑闻
政界风云

Awards

Oscar Nominations

Box Office Success

Modest Earnings

Critical Reception

Ebert Praise
Positive Reviews

Festivals

Toronto Film Festival

Popularity

Political Thriller
Timely Themes

Ratings

Metacritic 59
Rotten Tomatoes 76%

Reception

Award Nominations
Critical Acclaim
Mixed Reception
Mixed Reviews
Modest Box Office

Production Countries

United States

Release Year

Two Thousand
mowizz ID: a815c5d4-16ab-4bde-a9d8-a8021ebaae8b
Imprint
Privacy policy
Terms and Conditions
About us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Supported by:
KtBE
BAK
EGS
Suissimage
Swissperform
© 2026 Filmium GmbH - all external content remains the property of the rightful owner
Version: v1.2.40 (frontend) | (backend)