By TP Documentary | August 2023
Political campaigns serve as a window into the heart of democracy, showcasing the aspirations, controversies, and power struggles that define the electoral process. Documentaries can capture the intensity and nuances of these campaigns, offering viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the mechanisms that drive political change. Here are ten compelling political campaign documentaries that provide a deeper understanding of the democratic process and its impact on society.
Street Fight (2005)
Street Fight follows the dramatic mayoral race between Cory Booker and Sharpe James in Newark, New Jersey. The film delves into the challenges a young, up-and-coming candidate faces as he takes on a long-time incumbent.
The War Room (1993)
The War Room provides an intimate portrayal of Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign. This documentary offers a glimpse into the strategizing, messaging, and personal dynamics that shape a political campaign.
City So Real (2020)
City So Real is a captivating documentary that offers an intimate and multi-dimensional portrait of Chicago, exploring its residents' diverse lives and perspectives against the backdrop of a mayoral election and pressing social issues.
Mitt (2014)
Mitt offers a personal and introspective view of Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential campaign, giving viewers a glimpse into a candidate's sacrifices, highs, and lows on the national stage.
Bobby Kennedy for President (2018)
Bobby Kennedy for President is a Netflix documentary that chronicles the political journey and transformative impact of Robert F. Kennedy during his campaign for the presidency in the 1960s.
The Choice 2016 (2016)
The Choice 2016 provides an in-depth exploration of the contrasting lives, characters, and political trajectories of Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump during the 2016 U.S. presidential election.
By the People: The Election of Barack Obama (2009)
By the People: The Election of Barack Obama is an exclusive inside story of Barack Obama's journey from the U.S. Senate to the White House.
Knock Down the House (2019)
Knock Down the House follows the campaigns of four progressive women, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, as they run for Congress in 2018. This documentary highlights the grassroots movements that challenge establishment politics.
537 Votes (2020)
537 Votes is a compelling documentary that takes viewers back to the tumultuous 2000 U.S. presidential election, focusing on the critical recount in Florida that ultimately determined the outcome. The film provides a detailed account of the razor-thin margin of votes that separated George W. Bush and Al Gore, leading to legal battles, controversies, and intense political maneuvering.
Big Sky, Big Money (2012)
Big Sky, Big Money is a revealing documentary that investigates the influence of undisclosed political donations on American elections, focusing on the controversial Citizens United ruling.
Honorable Mentions
Primary (1960): Primary is a pioneering documentary that follows the intense 1960 Wisconsin Democratic primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey, offering a candid and behind-the-scenes look at the campaign trail.
Journeys with George (2000): Journeys with George is a captivating documentary that offers a unique behind-the-scenes perspective of George W. Bush's 2000 presidential campaign.
Chisholm '72: Unbought & Unbossed (2004): Chisholm '72: Unbought & Unbossed is an inspiring documentary that chronicles the groundbreaking 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman to run for the United States presidency.
Weiner (2016): Weiner offers an unfiltered look at Anthony Weiner's ill-fated 2013 campaign for Mayor of New York City. The film's intimate access captures the unraveling of a political career amidst personal scandals.