Top 5 Must-Watch Films About American Presidents

By Ana Chauhan, Staff Reporter, The Pawprint

The election is a time when people reminisce about the past, previous presidents, and how they impacted society. From comedies to political thrillers, these movies illustrate a president’s strengths as well as disastrous flaws. Below are the most powerful films about American presidents that are a must-watch during this time. 

1. Lincoln, by Steven Spielberg (2012)

In this historical drama about democracy, Steven Spielberg illustrates the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, and his efforts to reinforce democracy. 

2. All the President’s Men, by Alan J. Pakula (1976)

Based on the non-fiction book by Carl Bernstein, this film depicts two Washington Post journalists, Bernstein and Bob Woodward, that investigate the Watergate scandal that eventually led to Richard Nixon’s resignation. This political thriller will have you captivated from start to finish, as the two main characters unravel the truth about the scandal. 

3. Hyde Park on Hudson, by Roger Michell (2012)

This historical comedy-drama focuses on the close relationship between Margaret Daisy Suckly and her cousin, President Franklin D Roosevelt. 

4. W. by Oliver Stone (2008)

W. is a straightforward and remarkable biographical drama by Oliver Stone which chronicles George W. Bush’s life and presidency. The film mostly focuses on Bush’s personality and insecurities to portray an incompetent president that is oblivious to his own mistakes. 

5. The Butler, by Lee Daniels (2013)

This strange film illustrates the life of a butler who serves in the White House during multiple decades, from President Dwight Eisenhower to President Barack Obama. The movie shows notable changes in American society through the eyes of the butler