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Another day in 2016, another primary or caucus or ridiculous debate. Even political junkies have had too much of this election season. It’s happening all around us, every where you look. We don’t even have to deal with the Kardashians as much as we’ve had to deal with the Presidential election lately.
Which puts fans of the political process in a tough spot: you might still enjoy the idea of politics, but just not the actual events of what we’re faced with on every TV, website, and social media app. Well, you are not alone. Let’s all escape from politics and into a much safer place: movies about politics! But don’t worry, we’ve picked the 10 best movies on Netflix that will scratch your political itch just enough, without leaving a scab.
From documentaries about our country’s bravest freedom fighters, to some of the stupidest (and funniest) portrayals of people in political office, there’s something for everyone. Beautiful films, crazy true stories, and even “crazy because this is coming true” stories, these flicks will take your mind away from the real world and your eyes away from the 24-hour news channels for just long enough to take a deep breath, have a chuckle, and forget we’re still 6 months away from the general election. Sigh.
'In The Loop'
Oh, you like Veep? Well, get ready to LOVE In The Loop. Armando Iannucci, creator of Veep, directs this comedy that features many friendly faces and almost serves as a prequel to the HBO comedy. Plus, James Gandolfini is there, so you know it’s great. If you like your politicians clueless in a funny way, this is the film for you.
'Best of Enemies'
Talk about throwing shade! This documentary chronicles Gore Vidal and William F. Buckley Jr., who weren’t quite on the same page about, mmm, anything. You’ll wish you were watching them debate this whole time instead of the other garbage we’ve been subjected to for months.
'Team America: World Police'
Leave it to the South Park guys to create a movie that will never make you prouder to be an American. Also, this is the best use of marionettes since *NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye”. While making fun of big-budget action films as well as politics, this is the best funny film about North Korea, with The Interview (also available on Netflix) a close second.
'American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs'
Ready to be inspired? Check out this doc about Grace Lee Boggs at 97, a woman who was an author, activist and feminist, long before most of us were even born, who refused to stop fighting for justice and equality everywhere on Earth.
[Watch American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs on Netflix]
'Rosewater'
Jon Stewart’s directorial debut is an important must-see film about a journalist accused of being a spy during Iran’s 2009 election. Fun fact: because of this film, Iran has also accused Stewart of working with the CIA! While remaining wildly important, this film also served another purpose. While Jon took his hiatus from The Daily Show to direct this film, John Oliver filled in at the desk and proved he was ready for his own show, paving the way for Last Week Tonight to have its impact on our political world today as well.
'Navy SEALs: Their Untold Story'
This PBS documentary will give you a really real, close look at what life is like for some of the most badass Americans protecting our country. After you watch this film, let’s all get together and brainstorm a word stronger than “brave” that we can use to describe these heroes.
'The Propaganda Game'
The Propaganda Game is a fascinating documentary that takes you all up in North Korea to reveal where all that propaganda comes from and how it works. Director Alvaro Longoria was able to film his video diary as well as interviews and news footage from a country many of us will otherwise never be able to step inside.
'Citizen Ruth'
Directed by Alexander Payne (Election, The Descendants) , this satirical movie about the abortion debate, might make you a teeny bit crazy, because how is this still a thing we are arguing about every day? But the dark humor and a wonderful performance by Laura Dern makes it all better.
'American Dreamz'
A President on a reality show? This movie would hit a little too close to home, were it not so entirely ridiculous. Or is it? With a cast including Dennis Quaid, Hugh Grant, and Mandy Moore, at least American Dreamz can provide a few chuckles about the circus that is American politics.
'The Hidden Hand: Alien Contact and the Government Cover Up'
Hey, don’t worry about what’s going on here on Earth! Let’s worry about what’s flying around in the sky and beyond. While this documentary might not present much new information for alien connoisseurs, it’s a nice way to zone out and put our political problems into perspective.
[Watch The Hidden Hand: Alien Contact and the Government Cover Up on Netflix]
