Kevin Costner is this generation’s Jimmy Stewart. He is an everyman. An affable, amiable and likeable guy with a killer smile. A guy who relates to the common folk. He is also a multi-talented filmmaker and actor who embodies the very best that Hollywood has to offer, usually giving way to a Frank Capraesque look at life that warms the heart and brings a smile to an audience’s face. Heading into darker territory last year with "Mr. Brooks", Costner now returns to his roots of intelligent gentle cynicism (and that killer smile) with one of the most honest - and entertaining - looks at the U.S. political machine and the public’s right, and duty, to vote with SWING VOTE.

One of the keys to the fun of this film is the use of actual news reporters, political commentators and entertainment magazine personalities whose mere presence adds untold layers of wry wit and humor to the film. And what about Costner’s own band, Modern West, who not only perform in the film, but provide a few of its songs. But, be on the lookout for a hysterical turn by Judge Reinhold as Bud’s friend Walter.

I do, however, think casting could have done a bit better than Paula Johnson as news reporter/potential love interest Kate Madison. She lacked a convincing chemistry with Costner and seemed forced and insincere in her relationship with Madeline Carroll’s Molly. To be blunt, she is the hanging chad in SWING VOTE.

Costner himself believes that SWING VOTE echoes the emotion and sentiments of "Bull Durham" and "Field of Dreams." I have to agree. So, come August 1, cast your vote for

SWING VOTE. It’s a winner!

Bud Johnson - Kevin Costner

Molly Johnson - Madeline Carroll

President Boone - Kelsey Grammer

Donald Greenleaf - Dennis Hopper

Art Crumb - Nathan Lan e

Martin Fox - Stanley Tucci

Directed by Joshua Michael Stern. Written by Stern and Jason Richman. Rated PG-13. (100 min)