The Candidate

1972, Drama/Comedy, 1h 50m

32 Reviews 2,500+ Ratings

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critics consensus

The Candidate may not get all the details right when it comes to modern campaigning, but it captures political absurdity perfectly -- and boasts typically stellar work from Robert Redford to boot. Read critic reviews

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Movie Info

Without a candidate to run for the senate seat against admired Republican Crocker Jarmon (Don Porter), campaign manager Marvin Lucas (Peter Boyle) recruits leftist lawyer Bill McKay (Robert Redford). McKay's appearance piques the public's interest, and gradually Lucas pushes McKay toward a more centrist message. As McKay's original and honest platform gets watered down, his popularity increases so much that he is running even with Jarmon as Election Day approaches.

Cast & Crew

Robert Redford
Bill McKay
Peter Boyle
Marvin Lucas
Melvyn Douglas
John J. McKay
Don Porter
Senator Crocker Jarmon
Allen Garfield
Klein
Quinn K. Redeker
Rick Jenkin
Michael Lerner
Paul Corliss
Karen Carlson
Nancy McKay
Morgan Upton
Wally Henderson
Kenneth Tobey
Floyd J. Starkey
Chris Prey
David
Joe Miksak
Neil Atkinson
Jenny Sullivan
Lynn
Tom Dahlgren
Pilot
Michael Ritchie
Director
Walter Coblenz
Producer
Jeremy Larner
Screenwriter
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Critic Reviews for The Candidate

All Critics (32) | Top Critics (7) | Fresh (28) | Rotten (4)

View All Critic Reviews (32)

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