10 Great Political Films You Should Watch

Description: A riveting account of the Watergate scandal, this film showcases investigative journalism at its finest, exposing the political corruption at the highest levels of government.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual offices of The Washington Post, and many of the actors were trained by real journalists to ensure authenticity.

Description: A dark comedy about a spin doctor and a Hollywood producer who fabricate a war to distract from a presidential sex scandal, illustrating the manipulation of media and public perception.

Fact: The film's title comes from the saying "the tail wagging the dog," suggesting that the media can control the narrative.

Description: This film dramatizes the conflict between journalist Edward R. Murrow and Senator Joseph McCarthy, highlighting the role of media in political accountability.

Fact: The film was shot in black and white to reflect the era it portrays, and George Clooney, who also directed, played Fred Friendly, Murrow's producer.

Description: This film examines the British royal family's response to the death of Princess Diana, focusing on Queen Elizabeth II's struggle with public perception and her role in a changing society.

Fact: Helen Mirren won an Oscar for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II, and the film was praised for its accurate depiction of royal protocol.

Description: Steven Spielberg's biopic focuses on the final months of Abraham Lincoln's life, particularly his efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, showcasing the political maneuvering and personal conviction behind this monumental change.

Fact: Daniel Day-Lewis's performance as Lincoln was so immersive that he reportedly stayed in character even when not filming.

Description: Based on the real-life interviews between David Frost and Richard Nixon, this film explores the tension and revelations of Nixon's post-presidency reflections on Watergate.

Fact: The film was adapted from a stage play, and both Frank Langella and Michael Sheen reprised their roles from the play for the movie.

Description: Meryl Streep delivers a powerful performance as Margaret Thatcher, exploring her rise to power, her policies, and the personal sacrifices she made for her political career.

Fact: Meryl Streep won her third Oscar for this role, becoming one of the few actors to win multiple Academy Awards for Best Actress.

Description: George Clooney directs and stars in this political drama about an idealistic press secretary who faces moral dilemmas during a presidential primary campaign.

Fact: The film is based on the play "Farragut North" by Beau Willimon, who later created the TV series "House of Cards."

Description: This film captures the struggle of King George VI to overcome his stammer, highlighting the personal and political pressures of leadership during a time of national crisis.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was the first film directed by Tom Hooper to win in this category.

Description: A thinly veiled fictional account of Bill Clinton's first presidential campaign, this film delves into the personal and political challenges of running for office.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by Joe Klein, who initially wrote it anonymously, leading to much speculation about the real-life inspirations for the characters.