5 Best Movies About American Presidents (Real & Fictional)
When reality is too much to handle, fiction comes to rescue. At least you know that TV presidents will never disappoint.
Movies about power struggles, high-stakes decisions, and the cutthroat world of influential people are always captivating. And movies about presidents in particular, whether real or fictional, give audiences a window into that world of leadership and the challenges that come with holding the nation's highest office.
There are many movies that feature presidents in different ways. Some use them as tools for storytelling, others put them at the center of the film. And here we have chosen movies that mostly use the second approach. So here are 5 of the best movies that highlight these fascinating figures.
1. Lincoln (2012)
This 89%-rated movie (with a title that gives you a clue) is a biographical historical drama about President Abraham Lincoln's leadership during the final months of the Civil War. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Daniel Day-Lewis, the film focuses on his efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment, which would abolish slavery in the United States.
The film perfectly depicts Lincoln's struggle to balance political drama with his personal beliefs. And Day-Lewis won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Lincoln, capturing the president's moral conviction and quiet strength he was famous for.
2. JFK (1991)
For a different take on the life of a president, check out 1991's JFK. While it doesn't feature the character of the POTUS, the film delves into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and explores the conspiracy theories surrounding his death. The movie follows New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison, played brilliantly by Kevin Costner, as he investigates the official story and uncovers possible government cover-ups.
“The film making at work is outstanding. Brilliant editing, directing, writing, cinematography, and acting. And for a movie that’s like 3 hours long, it’s quite snappy and moves really well,” Redditor PPKDude said.
3. The American President (1995)
Another highly rated movie (it has the critical score of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes), but this time with a fictional president. The American President is a romantic drama/comedy that imagines the personal life of a president.
The fictional leader of the nation Andrew Shepherd, played by Michael Douglas, is a widowed Democrat running for re-election. But the most interesting part of the movie starts when he falls in love with environmental lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade.
Although fictional, The American President offers an idealized and rather charming portrayal of a president balancing power and vulnerability. That’s why it remains one of the most beloved films about the presidency.
4. Frost/Nixon (2008)
Based on the stage play by Peter Morgan, Frost/Nixon recounts the televised interviews between British talk show host David Frost, played by Michael Sheen, and former President Richard Nixon, portrayed by Frank Langella, following his resignation in the wake of the Watergate scandal.
The film focuses on Nixon's emotional and psychological struggles as he deals with his fall from grace and attempts to reclaim his legacy. The movie is indeed a compelling exploration of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of political power. And Frank Langella's portrayal of Nixon is the best we could ever have.
5. Independence Day (1996)
Old but gold, huh? In Independence Day, President Thomas J. Whitmore, played by Bill Pullman, is a fictional commander-in-chief who must lead the nation and the world in the fight against an alien invasion...
A former fighter pilot, Whitmore becomes a symbol of courage as he faces the challenge of saving humanity. Filled with action, suspense, and a memorable speech by Whitmore that has become iconic in pop culture, the movie shows a fictional president rising to the occasion in a time of global crisis.
