The film follows the story of Senator Laine Hanson (played by Joan Allen), a principled and ambitious politician who is nominated by the President of the United States (played by Jeff Bridges) to fill the vacant position of Vice President after the previous Vice President dies in office.
As Laine’s nomination is put forward, she faces intense scrutiny and opposition from members of the Senate, particularly from Republican Congressman Shelly Runyon (played by Gary Oldman), who is determined to derail her confirmation process at any cost.
Runyon launches a vicious smear campaign against Laine, digging up personal and professional scandals from her past in an attempt to discredit her and tarnish her reputation. Laine refuses to back down, however, and remains steadfast in her commitment to integrity and honesty.
As the confirmation hearings unfold, Laine must navigate a treacherous political landscape filled with backroom deals, betrayal, and manipulation. She faces tough questions from the Senate Judiciary Committee, including accusations of sexual impropriety and moral misconduct.
Throughout the ordeal, Laine refuses to compromise her principles or succumb to pressure from her opponents. She stands firm in her defense of truth and justice, even as her personal life is dragged through the mud and her career hangs in the balance.
In a climactic showdown, Laine confronts Runyon during a Senate hearing and delivers a powerful speech defending her integrity and challenging his tactics. She exposes Runyon’s true motives and calls him out for his hypocrisy and corruption.
In the end, Laine’s nomination is put to a vote in the Senate, where she narrowly secures confirmation and becomes the first female Vice President in American history. Despite the challenges and obstacles she faced, Laine emerges victorious, proving herself to be a formidable force in the male-dominated world of politics.
“The Contender” is a thought-provoking and gripping drama that offers a compelling exploration of power, morality, and gender dynamics in American politics. With its stellar performances, sharp dialogue, and timely themes, the film resonates with audiences and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of integrity and courage in the face of adversity.