The Last Hurrah is a 1958 film directed by John Ford and starring Spencer Tracy as Frank Skeffington. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Edwin O'Connor and was adapted for the screen by Frank Nugent.
The plot follows Skeffington as he runs for re-election as the mayor of a New England town. Despite his years of service and popularity, Skeffington faces stiff opposition from the city's business leaders who fear his populist ideology.
As Skeffington campaigns, he is aided by his nephew Adam Caulfield, played by Jeffrey Hunter, who works as a sports journalist. Through Adam, we witness Skeffington's struggles and the behind-the-scenes maneuvering of the city's powerbrokers.
The Last Hurrah is a poignant and nuanced exploration of American politics and the changing media landscape. At its heart, the film is a character study of Skeffington, a flawed but earnest man who believes in the power of public service.
The movie was well-received by critics and was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Ed Begley, who played a corrupt political operative. The Last Hurrah remains a classic of American cinema and a timeless reflection on the nature of power and politics.