Must See Films About the US Election

An election year is upon us, and thus it’s the perfect time to watch some documentaries that dive into the election process. Such films can provide perspectives unavailable through contemporary news outlets, offering more than just simple political studies.

Primary

We are accustomed to the primary process–however, the process is relatively new. It began in 1960 when John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey were competing for the Democratic Party nomination. Primary chronicles their race: the nation’s first campaign to rely heavily on television as a medium, culminating with a debate in the general election.

👉 Watch Primary on Amazon Prime

👉 Buy Primary as DVD on Amazon

Louise Bourgeois on Wikipedia Campaign Manager

Campaign Manager is a short film, effectively following the work of John Grenier: campaign manager to Barry Goldwater in 1964. Their campaign was of monumental importance to the Republican Party, ultimately shaping it into the conservative party we know today. Despite Goldwater’s loss, his impact on the party lives on.

Campaign Manager on Pennebaker Hegedus Films

Medium Cool

Medium Cool is a unique film: a hybrid between documentary and narrative. The film uses original footage but is driven by the narration of an author. It covers the 1968 Democratic convention and the riots that erupted as a result. Cameramen on the scene prove to be an essential part of the story. 

👉 Watch Medium Cool as DVD on Amazon

America Is Hard to See

Yet another film following a Democratic primary campaign, America is Hard to See uses newsreels to paint a dark but accurate picture of US politics in the 1970s. It follows the democratic primary, and the loss of Eugene McCarthy, whose campaign had focused on peaceful and liberal politics in regards to Vietnam. 

America Is Hard to See on Wikipedia

The War Room

The War Room is a 1993 documentary following the Clinton campaign from the inside out, showcasing the role media played in Bill Clinton’s ultimate victory. Its subject matter is the most recent of any film on our list, showcasing a modern campaign like no other.

👉 Watch The War Room on Amazon Prime

👉 Buy The War Room as DVD on Amazon

Taking on the Kennedys

This 1996 documentary follows the political campaign of Patrick Kennedy: son of Edward Kennedy. The story follows his run for the seat of Rhode Island, studying the famous American family and their impact over decades of American political life. It showcases a dark, unpleasant side of the Kennedys, as well as their amazing political influence. 

👉 Buy Taking on the Kennedys as DVD on Amazon

Which film will you watch first? 

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