I debated posting anything related to election season. I’ve always been a voting advocate, but this year I’m just tired. It’s been a rough one. I will say something I said four years ago on Election Day Eve, I believe in voting as a civic duty, and I’m proud to cast my vote on election day.
I admit that I love to watch stories revolving in and around the White House. American government, to me, is fascinating. And we can learn enormous amounts of information just by watching television shows and films.
As this year has been rough and I don’t care to watch Election coverage as if it is the Superbowl, I have instead decided to have a politically themed marathon. Why? Because while I want to escape reality for a bit, I can’t turn off my mind to reality. Might as well embrace it. Want to join me? Here are some Election Day alternative viewing options.
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
If you like a classic movie, you’re likely familiar with Jimmy Stewart. And if you’re a fan of Turner Classic Movies, you may know of Frank Capra and his particular brand of cinema. Stewart and Capra team up in 1939’s Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. A David and Goliath story where Stewart’s Mr. Smith hales from small-town America is appointed as a Representative to the US Congress and quickly becomes disillusioned by the reality of politics in Washington. This movie is for the idealist or anyone looking for an underdog win.
Dave (1993)
If you like a comedy of errors or a prince and the pauper tale, Dave is for you. Kevin Kline stars with Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver in this comedy, where a doppelganger replaces an indisposed President. Comedy and romance ensue.
The American President (1995)
Aaron Sorkin examined the intricacies of the Presidency for the first time with this screenplay. It is the seed that grew to be The West Wing. A widowed Michael Douglas pursues lobbyist Annette Benning. Conflicts of interest, romance, and an ensemble that includes Martin Sheen and Michael J. Fox.
The Ides of March (2011)
George Clooney plays a career politician running for President. Ryan Gosling stars as an idealist media consultant, but campaigns are a dirty business. Clooney provides a compelling screenplay and directs a who’s who cast for this outstanding political thriller.
Miss Sloane (2016)
Jessica Chastain stars as the titular Miss Sloane. A powerful lobbyist, and easy to blame for some of the wrongs in Washington. Forced to take on the Washington elite, we follow Miss Sloane, enraptured by her manipulations. You don’t know her motivations or her endgame, trust me.
Long Shot (2019)
The Rom-Com film is an endangered genre. Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen may seem like an odd pair, but this serves the script. Theron’s Charlotte used to babysit Rogen’s smitten Fred. Adult Fred and Charlotte are reunited just as she begins a bid for the Presidency. Director Jonathan Levine takes an impeccable script and continues in the vein of 50/50 by surrounding the leads with superb comic actors. And the result is a flawless Rom-Com.
