The point of it all is to lampoon the political process and politicians while also – as mentioned above – showing the importance of the individual. Technically, I suppose, the film is supposed to be funny. Just as with showing the importance of the individual however, Swing Vote completely fails in its attempts at humor. It has a great, very funny cast, and many cameos, but those apparently exist as a substitute for scripting humor into the work.
Make no mistake, Swing Vote's notion that individuals should vote and be well informed is both good and accurate, it just illustrates the point in a lackluster fashion. Most of the actors end up coming off as unfunny caricatures, and while Carroll is often very good, she does have some trouble expressing the upset and anger necessary for her role.
The extras on the Blu-ray are just as predictable as Bud's phenomenal turnaround from uninformed lout to caring voter. Included are a behind-the-scenes look at the production, deleted and extended scenes and a commentary with writer/director Joshua Michael Stern and writer Jason Richman.
Presumably anyone that owns a Blu-ray player that wishes to have a copy of the film in their possession at all times will go out and buy Swing Vote on Blu-ray instead of in regular DVD format (I know I would). However, there is nothing that truly stands out in the transfer either in terms of sound or video. There is nothing to truly complain about in the transfer either, in fact, much like the film, it all just sort of exists and remains wholly forgettable.
In the end, Swing Vote has a truly talented cast full of both excellent comedic and dramatic actors. They are however, hampered by a script that sets in motion a ludicrous idea and then is never quite sure where to go with the story except for all the obvious places. A segment of the population will certainly find the movie charming because their love of both Costner and Carroll's smile and heart along with the final intended message will be enough. Those people may also be the ones however for whom campaign promises mean more than actual actions once in office.
Swing Vote makes for a great 30 second spot, promising everything anyone could ever hope for in a movie, it just fails to deliver once you've shelled out your money.
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