The 10 best films about real American presidents
Throughout history, Hollywood has captured the complexity of commanding America’s highest office in countless films. The lives and challenges of characters such as Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and John F. Kennedy have been vastly explored on the big screen. Each of these productions has not only depicted the crucial decisions made by these leaders, but also the values and conflicts that have shaped American society. Can you guess which are the top 10 films about the United States' most emblematic presidents?
Image: Barack Obama Presidential Library, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
1
The Crossing (2000)
Of course, there had to be a film that reflected at least a small portion of the extensive political and military life of the first president of the United States. The Crossing focuses on the famous Delaware River mission commanded by Washington, a surprise attack against the British that would definitively change the course of the Revolutionary War.
Jeff Daniels' superb performance expertly captures George Washington's bravery and sense of duty, especially in relation to the patriotic vision that drove him to lead America’s independence.
Image: Emanuel Leutze, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
2
Thirteen Days (2000)
This historical political thriller dramatizes the intense 13 days during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962. The film captures John F. Kennedy’s strategic mind and leadership qualities as he navigates diplomatic and military dilemmas to avert a nuclear war with the Soviet Union.
Starring Bruce Greenwood, Thirteen Days showcases a president under immense pressure steering the United States through one of the toughest moments of the Cold War. Greenwood’s nuanced portrayal of Kennedy’s resolve, fear, and commitment to peace offers a riveting glimpse into the decision-making process inside the White House during a pivotal moment in history.
Image: Cecil W. Stoughton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
3
Truman (1995)
This portrayal of Harry S. Truman is a masterful take on an often underestimated president who led our country through the end of World War II and the first years of the Cold War.
In the role of Truman, Gary Sinise effectively captures the 33rd president’s ascent from a modest background to the highest office. Sinise embodies Truman’s integrity and willpower, while bringing up his pragmatic approach to governance, which earned him a well-deserved Golden Globe.
Image: Greta Kempton, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
4
The Special Relationship (2010)
The special relationship traces Bill Clinton’s interactions with British Prime Minister Tony Blair between 1997 and 2001, offering viewers front-row insight on power dynamics, how friendship develops in high-level governance, and its impact on global affairs.
Dennis Quaid brings to life the former president’s multifaceted persona, shedding light on his vulnerabilities. He perfectly nails not only Bill Clinton’s magnetic charm but also his ability to navigate complicated political landscapes and balance diplomacy with personal connections.
Image: Ralph Alswang White House Photograph Office, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
5
Hyde Park on Hudson (2012)
This historical drama depicts Franklin D. Roosevelt’s personal life and the complexities of leadership during a weekend visit by the King and Queen of England. Hyde Park on Hudson navigates through the 32nd president’s intimate relationships within his inner circle while working on strengthening the US-UK alliance on the eve of World War II.
Primarily known for his comedic genius, Bill Murray’s portrayal of Roosevelt reveals a lesser-seen side of the former president. Murray manages to capture his charm, wit, and burdens of leadership with a subtle performance blending the president’s public persona with his private vulnerabilities.
Image: National Archives and Records Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
6
W. (2008)
Oliver Stone’s W. explores George W. Bush’s journey from his early tumultuous years to his tenure in the White House. The film delves into his motivations, decisions regarding the Iraq war, and his personal and political challenges.
Josh Brolin successfully embodies Bush’s distinctive mannerisms, speech patterns, and the dynamics of his relationships with his family and advisers. The actor’s take is critical yet empathetic, providing insight into the former president’s character without caricature, and offering a deeper understanding of the man behind the president.
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7
All the Way (2016)
This TV biographical drama focuses on Lyndon B. Johnson’s efforts to pass the Civil Rights Act during his first year in office, while showcasing his persuasive tactics, political dexterity, and the moral challenges he had to deal with.
Bryan Cranston remarkably captures a leader committed to transformative social change who is, at the same time, burdened by the legacy of his predecessor, John F. Kennedy. His embodiment of Johnson’s larger-than-life personality, along with conveying intimate moments of vulnerability, earned Cranston much critical acclaim for bringing humanity to one of America’s most consequential figures.
Image: Cecil Stoughton, White House Press Office (WHPO), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
8
Frost/Nixon (2008)
Centered around a series of televised interviews between Richard Nixon and British talk show host David Frost, this riveting film showcases a battle of wits and wills. Directed by Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon offers a deeply human look at an isolated president struggling with the consequences of his actions.
Frank Langella plays Nixon in the aftermath of his resignation, as he attempts to salvage his legacy while grappling with the guilt and shame of his downfall. Langella’s masterful depiction of one of America’s most controversial figures goes beyond impersonation, which earned the actor an Academy Award nomination.
Image: Robert D. Ward, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
9
Amistad (1997)
Steven Spielberg’s Amistad revolves around John Quincy Adams’ role as an attorney defending African men who revolted aboard a Spanish slaveship. The legendary Anthony Hopkins portrays Adam’s passionate arguments before the Supreme Court and reveals his commitment to justice and equality.
Hopkins also compellingly conveys Adam’s intelligence, determination, and the weight his legacy as both a former president and a champion of the abolitionist cause represented for him.
Image: Mathew Benjamin Brady, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
10
Lincoln (2012)
Focused on the final moments of Abraham Lincoln’s life, Steven Spielberg’s biopic highlights the 16th president’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery.
The talented Daniel Day-Lewis delivers an absolutely iconic performance as Lincoln. He embodies the former president’s physicality and voice with such authenticity that viewers are transported to the heart of 19th-century American politics. Day-Lewis also manages to perfectly blend the president’s moral gravity, political savvy, and personal turmoil. His commitment to the role is so evident that it earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.
Image: George Peter Alexander Healy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
