Swing Vote didn't disappoint. It didn't quite break into the holy triumvirate of movies I've seen this summer (Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, and The Dark Knight), but it was better than Step Brothers, Hancock and maybe even Indiana Jones.

So I guess that puts me in the minority then, a) because I actually went to see Swing Vote and b) because I thought it was all right.

You probably already know the premise. Enterprising daughter thinks her drunk of a father should vote, but he doesn't show up... and she tries to vote in his place. Both Presidential candidates descend on their little podunk town when his vote (which wasn't tallied) becomes the difference in their race for the Presidency.

Interestingly, Costner's young daughter (Madeline Carroll in a scene-stealing turn) is the only one who isn't changed by the events which follow. Both the incumbent and the challenger flip flop on every crucial platform, the news media go crazy over the story, and, basically, everybody else completely lose themselves in their quests for importance. And that includes poor Bud Johnson (Costner), even in his turn as the lead singer of "Half Nelson" (Costner's actual band, Modern West).

The truth of the movie is that we are responsible for our part, whether it's the small swing vote or the big decisions of leading the country. Our participation is paramount to the success of our community, regardless of how big a pond we swim in. And our ability to succeed depends on our own ability to stick to who we are and be true to ourselves. Trite, but true.



Swing Vote does get some shots in about the need to vote and all that, as well as the loss of innocence, the teaching of old dogs in new trick form and the need to stay sober. But there are some condemnations of America's apathy, and while wrapped up in poignant melodramedy, they are sharp and biting.

As a Christian, I felt convicted by the responsibility aspects of the movie (and to some degree, in the apathy department). Johnson's daughter shows him how he can become a representative for those who can't represent themselves, specifically the poor. Jesus called us to minister to those who are left out and condemned by society, to reach them for Him, in love and grace.

A child will lead us, in truth and innocence. Swing Vote might not win the election, but it makes a few solid points for its party.