The Iron Lady

The Iron Lady has been in theaters for a few weeks and is definitely worth the money. Meryl Streep continues to add to her already impressive resume. Taking on this role as the first women to be a British Prime Minister was not to be taken lightly. She would have to assume the role at various time periods as her character aged. Given that the significant time period of her life was in late middle age, Ms. Streep could step into the period quite easily. The dotage period is another story. Adding another 20+ years is difficult no matter the starting point, and impossible for most.
As Prime Minister for over 12 years, she guided Great Britain through the turbulent '80's when the IRA was still a violent terrorist group, the economy was in shambles and people needed a fresh leader.
She provided all. When Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic, she responded aggressively, and drove out the invaders. She was able to instill in the citizenry that it was time to throw over the socialism that had sapped the energy from business and industry. Unions vilified her, and the members of parliament questioned her moves at every step. She was able to prevail against all odds. Perhaps now, as the future of the Euro is in doubt, her lasting legacy may be forever attached to her refusal to give up the British pound Sterling. For this foresight, against the wishes of Britain's continental neighbors, she will have solidified her place in the long history of great Britain.
Her memoirs, published just a few years ago, will now enjoy renewed interest; and if Ms. Streep garners an oscar for her performance, all the more interest in Mrs. Thatcher's words and career.
A Four Star **** performance and a four star film****.