It’s a story about a Texan Democrat and a Houston socialite (if that doesn’t reel you in, I don’t know what will) from 20 or so years ago, so I’m definitely jonesing to see this movie. I just finished up a class on post-1865 Texas history, and I’m even more aware now of how powerful Texans have been and still are in the federal government. Here’s the trailer, for those who haven’t seen it:
The line “What does this rank relative to other covert wars? There’s never been anything like it,” just thrills me. I wonder what more contemporary Texas politician we could compare to Charlie Wilson? The hot tub scene in the trailer makes me think Tom Delay, but I don’t know how the rest of the story would apply.
It does look neat, but I already saw one technical flaw in the movie just in this trailer… unless Mr. Wilson is sitting at the desk of a North Carolinian Congressman, the flag in his office is upside down (1:04). As long as that’s the only eye-twitching moment, it should be pretty good (though I am reminded of The West Wing talking about “Houston zoning ordinances”).
It’s amusing how our perceptions of public figures change over time. I’m from Wilson’s old district (outside Lufkin) and was in and out of the district thru most of the 70/80’s.
Anyway, at the time, Wilson was considered a wholly owned subsidiary of Arthur Temple (Temple Industries/Temple Inland) and truly despised by many people in the district. Think of Tom Delay representing the Montrose.
Me, I always liked Wilson. Not necessarily politically but the guy truly had style.
I’m eager to see this movie, also. It’s billed as a comedy, but I read the book it was based on and it was certainly a very serious read.
A radio station reminded me this morning that through Charlie Wilson’s activity rose Osama bin Laden.
I interned for Charlie in the Summer of ’83. He had the best looking staff of anyone on the Hill.
Fight on!