Lyndon Baines Johnson, commonly referred to as LBJ, was the 36th President of the United States, serving from 1963 to 1969. His presidency is notable for significant domestic policies, particularly in civil rights, public broadcasting, Medicare, and Medicaid, as well as his escalation of the Vietnam War. Due to his complex legacy, LBJ has been a subject of interest in film, with several movies exploring his political life, personal character, and the turbulent times he navigated as President.
Here are films about LBJ, each offering a unique lens on his life and presidency:
“Selma”, 2014
Director: Ava DuVernay
Although not entirely focused on LBJ, this historical drama directed by Ava DuVernay portrays him (played by Tom Wilkinson) in his role during the Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Martin Luther King Jr. (played by David Oyelowo) in 1965. The film provides insight into the complex relationship between Johnson and King and the broader civil rights movement.
Starring: David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo, Tom Wilkinson, Tim Roth, Lorraine Toussaint, Common, Giovanni Ribisi, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr.;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 128 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Selma” on the website imdb.com
“The Butler”, 2013
Director: Lee Daniels
This film, directed by Lee Daniels, is a fictional story inspired by the real-life of Eugene Allen, who served several presidents as a White House butler. Liev Schreiber plays Johnson among a star-studded cast. While not solely about LBJ, the movie includes scenes that reflect Johnson's impact on civil rights and his interactions with the main character during the civil rights era.
Starring: Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr., David Oyelowo, Terrence Howard, Robin Williams, Liev Schreiber, Alan Rickman, John Cusack, David Banner;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 132 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
These films each offer a different perspective on LBJ, providing insights into his presidency, his personal life, and the extraordinary times he lived through.
In the pantheon of cinematic portrayals, films about Lyndon B. Johnson navigate a complex legacy, artfully unpacking the nuances of his presidency from the escalation of the Vietnam War to his instrumental role in civil rights legislation. These films, ranging from historical dramas to intimate biographical pieces, offer viewers a multifaceted look at a leader whose policies and persona left an indelible mark on American history. Through compelling performances and thoughtful direction, they evoke a sense of empathy and understanding, challenging audiences to reflect on the balance of power, the weight of decision-making, and the human flaws and strengths underlying political leadership. As cinema continues to explore the depths of historical figures, the films about LBJ stand out for their contribution to our understanding not only of the man himself but also of the turbulent era he helped shape, reminding us of the enduring impact of leadership on the fabric of society.
