Step into the high-stakes world of political intrigue with Advise & Consent, a groundbreaking political drama from 1962, now beautifully colorized for a modern viewing experience. Directed by Otto Preminger and based on Allen Drury’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this riveting film explores the dark underbelly of Washington politics during a contentious Senate confirmation hearing. Perfect for fans of political thrillers and classic cinema, this HD download brings one of Hollywood’s most daring films to life.
Advise & Consent delves deep into the machinations of the U.S. Senate as it debates the controversial nomination of Robert A. Leffingwell (Henry Fonda) for Secretary of State. The president, aware of his declining health, pushes for Leffingwell’s appointment as his dying wish, believing that his liberal policies are key to maintaining foreign relations. However, Leffingwell’s nomination sparks fierce opposition within the Senate, led by the formidable and curmudgeonly Senator Seabright “Seab” Cooley (Charles Laughton).
The drama intensifies when Cooley introduces evidence suggesting that Leffingwell was once part of a Communist cell during his university days. This revelation sets off a chain reaction of political maneuvering, blackmail, and betrayal as senators grapple with their personal ethics and public responsibilities. At the center of the storm is Senator Brigham Anderson (Don Murray), tasked with leading the subcommittee investigating Leffingwell’s past. Anderson’s own secrets come under scrutiny when he is blackmailed over a wartime homosexual affair, leading to tragic consequences.
As tensions escalate, alliances crumble, and careers are destroyed, Advise & Consent culminates in a dramatic Senate vote that will decide not only Leffingwell’s fate but also the future of American diplomacy. The film ends with shocking twists: Anderson’s suicide, the president’s sudden death, and Vice President Harley Hudson (Lew Ayres) refusing to break a tie vote on Leffingwell’s confirmation.
The film features an ensemble cast of Hollywood legends who bring this gripping story to life:
Henry Fonda as Robert A. Leffingwell
Charles Laughton as Senator Seabright Cooley
Don Murray as Senator Brigham Anderson
Lew Ayres as Vice President Harley Hudson
Walter Pidgeon as Senate Majority Leader Bob Munson
Peter Lawford as Senator Lafe Smith
Gene Tierney as Dolly Harrison
Burgess Meredith as Herbert Gelman
Advise & Consent is a political drama thriller that combines elements of suspense, character-driven storytelling, and social commentary. Its exploration of power dynamics and ethical dilemmas makes it one of Hollywood’s most compelling portrayals of government corruption.
Released in 1962 during the height of Cold War tensions, Advise & Consent reflects America’s anxieties about communism and political integrity. The film boldly tackles taboo subjects like homosexuality and blackmail—topics rarely addressed in mainstream cinema at the time—making it a trailblazer in its genre.
The film also serves as a critique of legislative processes and personal agendas within government institutions. Its portrayal of moral compromise resonates with audiences even today, offering timeless insights into the complexities of leadership and accountability.
This colorized version of Advise & Consent has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques to enhance its visual appeal while preserving its original cinematic atmosphere. The process involved assigning vibrant yet historically accurate colors to costumes, settings, and characters, bringing new depth to Otto Preminger’s masterful direction.
The colorization highlights key visual elements such as the opulent Senate chambers, tense committee hearings, and shadowy moments of personal conflict. For modern audiences unfamiliar with black-and-white films, this version offers an accessible way to experience one of cinema’s most daring works.
Director: Otto Preminger
Screenplay: Wendell Mayes
Based on: Allen Drury’s novel
Cinematography: Sam Leavitt
Edited by: Louis R. Loeffler
Production Company: Columbia Pictures
Distributed by: Columbia Pictures
Runtime: 139 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Compatible with most devices including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Upon release, Advise & Consent received widespread acclaim for its bold storytelling and stellar performances. Critics praised Otto Preminger for his unflinching portrayal of political corruption and moral compromise. The film remains a landmark in American cinema for its willingness to tackle controversial topics head-on.
Today, Advise & Consent is regarded as one of Hollywood’s finest political dramas. Its influence can be seen in later films like All the President’s Men (1976) and The Ides of March (2011), which similarly explore themes of power and betrayal within government institutions.
Q: Is Advise & Consent based on true events?
A: No, it is based on Allen Drury’s fictional novel but reflects real-life political dynamics during the Cold War era.
Q: What makes Advise & Consent groundbreaking?
A: Its exploration of taboo subjects like homosexuality and political blackmail was unprecedented for its time.
Q: How does the colorized version compare to the original?
A: The colorization enhances visual details while preserving the film’s dramatic tone.
Q: Who are some notable stars in Advise & Consent?
A: Henry Fonda leads an ensemble cast that includes Charles Laughton, Don Murray, Walter Pidgeon, Gene Tierney, and Burgess Meredith.
Q: What resolution is available for download?
A: The HD version is available in 1080p resolution for optimal viewing quality.
Experience the Thrills and Intrigue of Advise & Consent (1962) Today!