Films that revolve around the American government often delve into politics, scandals, leadership, and the many intricacies of running a nation. They can range from serious drama to intense thrillers, and sometimes even comedies, showcasing the different facets and challenges of government operations and the impact on both its leaders and citizens.
“Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”, 1939
Director: Frank Capra
A classic film where James Stewart plays a newly appointed United States Senator who fights against a corrupt political system.
Starring: James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude Rains, Edward Arnold, Guy Kibbee, Thomas Mitchell, Eugene Pallette, Beulah Bondi, H.B. Warner, Harry Carey;
Production year: 1939;
Genre: drama, comedy;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 129 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” on the website imdb.com
“The American President”, 1995
Director: Rob Reiner
A romantic comedy-drama which depicts the personal and professional life of a fictitious U.S. President and his romance with an environmental lobbyist.
Starring: Michael Douglas, Annette Bening, Martin Sheen, Michael J. Fox, Anna Deavere Smith, Samantha Mathis, Shawna Waldron, David Paymer, Anne Haney, Richard Dreyfuss;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 114 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “The American President” on the website imdb.com
“Wag the Dog”, 1997
Director: Barry Levinson
A black comedy about a spin doctor and a Hollywood producer who join efforts to fabricate a war in order to distract the public from a presidential scandal.
Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Robert De Niro, Anne Heche, Woody Harrelson, Denis Leary, Willie Nelson, Andrea Martin, Michael Belson, Suzanne Cryer, John Michael Higgins;
Production year: 1997;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Wag the Dog” on the website imdb.com
“Frost/Nixon”, 2008
Director: Ron Howard
This historical drama is based on the interviews between British talk-show host David Frost and former President Richard Nixon, covering the latter's involvement in the Watergate scandal.
Starring: Frank Langella, Michael Sheen, Sam Rockwell, Kevin Bacon, Matthew Macfadyen, Oliver Platt, Rebecca Hall, Toby Jones, Andy Milder, Kate Jennings Grant;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 122 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
“The Contender”, 2000
Director: Rod Lurie
A political thriller that depicts the confirmation of a female Vice President and the sexual scandal that threatens her career and integrity.
Starring: Gary Oldman, Joan Allen, Jeff Bridges, Christian Slater, Sam Elliott, William Petersen, Saul Rubinek, Philip Baker Hall, Mike Binder, Robin Thomas;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: thriller, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 126 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,9;
More information about the film “The Contender” on the website imdb.com
“Primary Colors”, 1998
Director: Mike Nichols
A comedic and dramatic portrayal of a presidential campaign that closely mirrors the 1992 Clinton campaign, exploring the dark side of politics and media.
Starring: John Travolta, Emma Thompson, Billy Bob Thornton, Kathy Bates, Adrian Lester, Maura Tierney, Larry Hagman, Diane Ladd, Paul Guilfoyle, Rebecca Walker;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 143 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,7;
More information about the film “Primary Colors” on the website imdb.com
“Argo”, 2012
Director: Ben Affleck
Directed by Ben Affleck, this historical drama is set amidst the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, showcasing the CIA's operation to rescue six Americans under the guise of making a fake Hollywood film.
Starring: Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, Alan Arkin, John Goodman, Victor Garber, Tate Donovan, Clea DuVall, Scoot McNairy, Rory Cochrane, Christopher Denham;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: thriller, drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “Argo” on the website imdb.com
“Vice”, 2018
Director: Adam McKay
A biographical film that follows the political rise of Dick Cheney and his powerful yet controversial role as Vice President of the United States under George W. Bush.
Starring: Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Steve Carell, Sam Rockwell, Alison Pill, Eddie Marsan, Justin Kirk, Lisa Gay Hamilton, Jesse Plemons, Bill Camp;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, comedy, biography, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 132 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
In conclusion, films about American government offer not just a window into the intricate workings of political systems, but also reflect the temperaments of their times and the issues close to the heart of society. Whether it's through the lens of satire, drama, or even action-thrills, these films manage to dissect the American political landscape, presenting narratives that range from the deeply personal to the sweepingly epic. They challenge audiences to consider the complexities of governance, the nature of power, and the very ideals upon which America was founded. As a barometer of cultural sentiment and a tool for civic education, these films play a crucial role in both entertaining and enlightening the citizenry about the strengths and vulnerabilities of their government, inspiring through story the very essence of democratic engagement.
