2008 Power Picks: Reel Politics

We invited elected officials and political pundits to tell us what their favorite 'political' film is - and why. As their responses come in, we'll post them here. Read on!

	Virginia Governor Tim Kaine [info]:
	Citizen Kane Often cited as being one of the most innovative works in the history of film, Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane” represents the first instance in which American politics is criticized by the entertainment industry. Though he had to fight to get the film released, Director Orson Welles successfully took on William Randolph Hearst – a real political force – in his narrative film. So, the film is a landmark event both artistically and politically.
	Senator William K. Barlow
	All the President's Men All the President's Men is a fast-paced, interesting account of the investigative reporting that uncovered the Watergate scandal. It not only provided a highly realistic account of the historical events, but it was very entertaining and nearly won Best Picture. It is one of my favorite political films.
	Senator John Miller
	A Man for All Seasons It sets an example of putting principle above all else and shows that true leadership and service is being able to do the right thing, regardless of the consequences.
	Senator Yvonne Miller [info]:
	Chisholm '72: Unbought & Unbossed A wonderful documentary based on the life and accomplishments of New York Congresswoman, Shirley Chisholm. I would say that is my favorite political movie because Shirley Chisholm was a pioneer who showed unusal strength and courage to break new ground for African Americans.
	Virginia Senator John Warner [info]:
	The Candidate It had a good deal of accuracy as to what any candidate goes through when he's running for public office.
	Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim [info]:
	All the President’s Men This award winning book by Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, was developed for the silver screen by Allan Pakula, who considered the movie his greatest film. An all star cast, including Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford and Jason Robards, vividly captures the series of events that ultimately led to one of the most infamous political scandals in the history of the United States: Watergate. In a subtle but engaging and entertaining manner, the film reiterates the book’s central message: No man is above the law. Do not watch this movie expecting profound messages, morals or meanings. It’s a true story of a conspiracy that shattered the life and reputation of the 37th President of the United States. The film garnered four Academy Awards and was ranked the 77th among the greatest movies of all time by the American Film Institute.
	Former Congressman G. William Whitehurst [info]:
	Mr. Smith Goes to Washington It’s a classic. Goes back to the ‘30s with Jimmy Stewart. A great film about someone who tried to make a difference and ran up against the power structure. Why is it my favorite? I went to DC, not as a senator, but as a Congressman and I see in the theme of the film the fight in an institution that’s in the hands of the old guard. And, in fact, if you look at the present campaign, and see Obama’s theme – Change – there’s a resonance between that and the theme of the film. And there are other candidates as well, Huckabee, for example, who are fighting the status quo. Both international and domestic policies are what some of the current candidates want to change. Their theme is we’re unhappy with the way things are now: “We think change is necessary. If you elect us, we’ll make a change.” If you look at the film, that’s exactly what you see, a candidate who challenges a power structure that resists him.
	Cathy Lewis Host of HearSay on 89.5WHRV FM [info]:
	All the President’s Men ...which absolutely inspired me to enter the journalism field. I thought it was really possible to speak truth to power. I still do.