Elections are not just about casting votes; they're about power, ambition, and the human condition. This curated list of election drama films delves into the murky waters of politics, showcasing the intense battles for power, the moral dilemmas faced by candidates, and the impact on society. Whether you're a political junkie or simply love a good story, these films offer a fascinating look at the drama behind the ballot box.
The Candidate (1972)
Description: This film follows an idealistic lawyer who unexpectedly wins a Senate seat, exploring the compromises and ethical dilemmas he faces during his campaign.
Fact: Robert Redford, who plays the lead, also co-wrote the screenplay, and the film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
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Bulworth (1998)
Description: Warren Beatty plays a disillusioned senator who decides to speak his mind, leading to a wild and comedic campaign.
Fact: Beatty also co-wrote and directed the film, which was both a commercial and critical success.
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Election (1999)
Description: A high school election becomes a battleground for personal vendettas and political machinations, with a teacher and a student at the heart of the conflict.
Fact: Reese Witherspoon's performance as Tracy Flick earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.
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The Contender (2000)
Description: Joan Allen stars as a vice-presidential nominee whose past is scrutinized, leading to a battle over integrity and political survival.
Fact: The film was inspired by the Anita Hill hearings during Clarence Thomas's Supreme Court confirmation.
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The Ides of March (2011)
Description: George Clooney stars and directs this tale of a young press secretary caught in a web of political intrigue during a tight presidential primary race.
Fact: The film was adapted from the play "Farragut North" by Beau Willimon, who later created the Netflix series "House of Cards."
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The Campaign (2012)
Description: Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis star in this comedy about two rival candidates in a North Carolina congressional election.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life political scandals and the absurdity of modern political campaigns.
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Bob Roberts (1992)
Description: Tim Robbins writes, directs, and stars in this satirical mockumentary about a conservative folk singer running for Senate.
Fact: The film was shot in a cinéma vérité style to give it the feel of a real documentary.
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The War Room (1993)
Description: This documentary provides an insider's look at Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, focusing on his campaign managers James Carville and George Stephanopoulos.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
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Primary Colors (1998)
Description: A thinly veiled fictionalization of Bill Clinton's first presidential campaign, this film examines the personal and political challenges faced by a charismatic governor.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Joe Klein, who initially wrote it anonymously, leading to much speculation about the author's identity.
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Man of the Year (2006)
Description: Robin Williams plays a comedian who runs for President as a joke, only to win due to a computer glitch, leading to a series of political and personal crises.
Fact: The film explores themes of media influence and the unpredictability of elections.
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