Alexander Payne manifestly adores the city and state where he grew up—but he seems to loves it like one loves an old pal or sibling rather than the blind, unconditional way parents and children love each other. That is, he teases his hometown even as he’s giving it a great big hug, and seems besotted despite its slightly goofy faith in its own perfect normalcy. ELECTION pays Omaha the perverse compliment of showing that glamorous coastal sins—overweening ambition, extramarital sex, lesbianism, cynicism—are available locally as well, even in Papillion and La Vista. (Kurt Andersen)

Awards

Independent Spirit Award Winner: Best Director (Alexander Payne); Independent Spirit Awards Winner: Best Feature; Independent Spirit Award Nominee: Best Female Lead (Reese Witherspoon)