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Journey streaming: where to watch online?

Currently you are able to watch "Journey" streaming on Hallmark Movies Now Amazon Channel, Hallmark Movies Now Apple TV Channel or for free with ads on Pluto TV.

Deserted by their mother, a young boy and his sister discover the true meaning of family while living with their grandfather.

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Produced by, journey (1995), directed by tom mcloughlin.

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Brief synopsis, cast & crew, tom mcloughlin, annie o'donnell, james lashly, brenda fricker, frances conroy, technical specs.

While attempting to deal with the departure of his mother, a young boy named Journey learns to appreciate and understand his grandparents.

Jason Robards Jr.

Eliza dushku, paul sutera, jason dohring, claude earl jones, thomas kopache, anne betancourt, max pomeranc, john b ashman, helen butler, glenn close, larry commans, kevin cozad, david e fluhr, jacob goldstein, andrew gottlieb, stephen grubbs, david a harp, fred harpman, olivia harris, phyllis huffman, melanie hughes-weaver, victoria jensen, thomas kane, donald kruger, patricia maclachlan, chad owen mochrie, michael neumann, jay ostrowski, tim pershing, rebecca poulos, carol a. sadler, brent shields, janet stokes, newton termeer, rick tinsley, kees van oostrum, scott vickrey, karen mayeda vranek, richard welsh, roxanne wightman, patrick williams, robert j wilson, miscellaneous notes.

Aired in United States December 10, 1995

Released in United States on Video July 30, 1996

Began shooting November 7, 1994.

Completed shooting December 8, 1994.

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Jason Robards (Marcus) Brenda Fricker (Lottie) Max Pomeranc (Journey) Eliza Dushku (Cat) Meg Tilly (Min) Sal Lopez (Boone) Jason Dohring (Cooper McDougall) Frances Conroy (Fiona) James Lashly (Duncan) Anne Betancourt (Kate)

Tom McLoughlin

Journey and his grandfather Marcus have to come to terms with each other's reactions to the loss when Journey's mother, Min, decides to leave Journey and his sister Cat to be looked after by their grandparents.

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Journey (1995)

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Journey and his grandfather Marcus have to come to terms with each other’s reactions to the loss when Journey’s mother, Min, decides to leave Journey and his sister Cat to be looked after by their grandparents.

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Watch The Journey

• 1 hr 24 min
• 6.5   (1,040)

The Journey is a drama based on a novel of the same name. The movie tells the story of the titular character, who is devastated when his mother abandons him and his sister. The children are sent to live with their grandparents. Journey is having a difficult time adjusting, but he meets a friend who introduces him to a worthwhile hobby.

The Journey is a 1995 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.

• Genres Drama
• Cast Jason Patric Thandiwe Newton Larry Drake
• Director Ali-Reza Raisian
• Release Date 1995
• MPAA Rating PG-13
• Runtime 1 hr 24 min
• Language Persian
• IMDB Rating 6.5   (1,040)

10 Best Talking Animals in Live-Action Movies, Ranked

T alking animals in live-action movies have often been met with mixed reactions, with some critics dismissing them as gimmicky or cheesy. However, amidst this skepticism, a few exceptional characters have managed to captivate audiences and transcend the limitations of their concept. These remarkable talking animals have become beloved icons in their own right, proving that with the right blend of personality, storytelling, and craftsmanship, even the most unlikely of characters can leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

Endearing characters such as Paddington Bear and Babe have defied expectations, delivering heartwarming stories that continue to resonate with viewers of all ages. While not all these animals speak to humans, they're sufficiently anthropomorphized and have a very "human" style of speech with other animals. These memorable characters have transcended the screen, bringing joy, laughter, and sometimes even tears to audiences of all ages.

Scooby-Doo — ‘Scooby-Doo’ Live-Action Movie Series (2002-2004)

The 2002 movie Scooby-Doo follows the Mystery Inc. gang – Scooby-Doo (voiced by Neil Fanning ), Shaggy ( Matthew Lillard ), Fred ( Freddie Prinze Jr. ), Velma ( Linda Cardellini ), and Daphne ( Sarah Michelle Gellar ) — as they are invited to a remote island amusement park called Spooky Island. They're tasked with uncovering the mystery behind the strange behavior of the park's visitors, who are transforming into zombie-like creatures. As they dig deeper, they discover a plot involving a cursed ancient artifact and the island's eccentric owner, Emile Mondavarious ( Rowan Atkinson ). The team must solve the mystery while navigating their interpersonal challenges and uncovering the truth behind the spooky happenings.

Scooby-Doo initially faced criticism for its departure from the original animated series, uneven humor, and exaggerated visual effects. However, over time, it has gained a cult following due to its nostalgic appeal, a playful homage to the source material, and the chemistry of the cast. The movie's campy humor and self-awareness struck a chord with fans of the animated show, ultimately contributing to its status as a cult classic. From Scooby-Doo’s clumsy yet heroic actions to his distinctive speech and his strong bond with the human characters (especially Shaggy), Scooby-Doo stands as one of the most beloved talking animals in a live-action movie.

Thackery Binx — ‘Hocus Pocus’ (1993)

A teenager, Max Dennison ( Omri Katz ), moves to Salem, Massachusetts, with his family. On Halloween night, Max and his sister, Dani ( Thora Birch ), accidentally resurrect three witches, the Sanderson sisters, who were executed in the 17th century. With the help of a friendly black cat, Thackery Binx, Max, Dani, and their new friend Allison ( Vinessa Shaw ) must stop the witches from becoming immortal by stealing the life force of Salem's children. The film combines humor, magic, and Halloween elements in a whimsical adventure as the kids try to outwit the comically wicked witches.

In the 17th century, Thackery Binx ( Sean Murray ) was once a young boy living in Salem, Massachusetts. However, he was transformed into an immortal black cat by the malevolent Sanderson sisters after trying to save his sister from their clutches. As a talking cat, Thackery (voiced by Jason Marsden ) serves as a guide and protector for the modern-day protagonists, Max, Dani, and Allison, in their quest to defeat the witches. Thackery Binx's loyalty, wisdom, and role as a guardian figure in the film have endeared him to audiences, making him a memorable and well-loved character.

Stuart Little — ‘Stuart Little’ Movie Series (1999-2005)

Stuart Little is a heartwarming family film based on E.B. White 's classic children's book. The story revolves around the Little family, who adopt a tiny, anthropomorphic mouse named Stuart as their son. Despite his small size, Stuart has a big heart and a desire to fit in with his human family. As Stuart navigates the challenges of being a mouse in a human world, he forms close bonds with his adoptive brother George, befriends a bird named Margalo, and embarks on a journey to rescue her when she goes missing.

Unlike movies involving talking animals, Stuart's character is well-rounded, evolving as he faces various situations. His connection with human characters feel genuine and heartwarming, creating a strong emotional connection with the audience. His unwavering optimism and ability to overcome obstacles make him highly likable and relatable to audiences of all ages.

Peter Rabbit — ‘Peter Rabbit’ Movie Series (2018-2021)

The 2018 and 2021 Peter Rabbit movies are a modern adaptation of Beatrix Potter 's classic children's tales. It follows the mischievous and adventurous Peter Rabbit (voiced by James Corden ), along with his siblings Flopsy (voiced by Margot Robbie ), Mopsy (voiced by Elizabeth Debicki ), and Cottontail (voiced by Daisy Ridley ), as they engage in playful antics in Mr. McGregor’s ( Sam Neill ) garden. When McGregor's nephew, Thomas ( Domhnall Gleeson ), inherits the property, he clashes with the rabbits over the garden's bounty. A rivalry ensues, leading to a battle of wits and pranks.

The movies strike a balance between live-action and CGI animation, bringing the beloved characters to life in a contemporary setting. Peter's wit and cleverness shine through his interactions with both humans and other animals. While Peter Rabbit's character in the movies has been described as having more of an "attitude rather than a heart," his embodiment of spirit and adventure radiates through the classic Beatrix Potter tale with a modern twist.

Winnie the Pooh Characters — ‘Christopher Robin’ (2018)

Christopher Robin ( Orton O’Brien - young Christopher Robin) was once a young boy who had countless adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with his stuffed animal friends, including Winnie the Pooh. Now a grown-up working in a demanding job, Christopher ( Ewan McGregor - adult Christopher Robin) has lost touch with his imagination and the joy of his childhood. When Pooh reenters his life, seeking help to find his lost friends, Christopher rediscovers the importance of playfulness, friendship, and reconnecting with the simpler joys of life.

Piglet, Tigger, and Eeyore, along with Winnie the Pooh at the forefront, stand out due to their profound emotional depth and relatable qualities. Pooh's innocent wisdom and childlike curiosity in Christopher Robin make him irresistibly likable. These characters and their dialogue are steeped in warmth, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comforting familiarity. Their authenticity touches audiences while embodying the very essence of friendship and the journey of growing up.

Wilbur — ‘Charlotte’s Web’ (2006)

Based on the E.B. White novel of the same name, Charlotte’s Web follows the story of Wilbur, a young pig who forms an unlikely friendship with a talented spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur learns he is destined for the dinner table, Charlotte uses her web to write messages praising Wilbur's virtues. As the messages spread, the townspeople's admiration for Wilbur grows, leading to a heartwarming conclusion.

Voiced with charm and emotion, Wilbur's dialogue and interactions with other characters highlight his genuine nature. Unlike most talking animals who might rely on comedic gimmicks, Wilbur's character is rich in emotional depth and moral lessons. His journey from being a scared and vulnerable pig to a brave and selfless friend showcases his growth and resilience, making him a standout among talking animals in live-action movies.

Chance — ‘Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey’ (1993)

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey , a remake of the 1963 movie The Incredible Journey , shares the story of two dogs, Shadow (voiced by Don Ameche ) and Chance (voiced by Michael J. Fox ), and a cat named Sassy (voiced by Sally Field ), who are left in the care of a friend while their family temporary relocates to San Francisco. However, believing they've been abandoned, the animals embark on a remarkable journey to reunite with their human family.

While film critic Roger Ebert noted that the film was “frankly designed for kids,” he appreciated the “craftsmanship and undeniable charm” and that “if you find yourself watching it with a child you may end up liking it almost as much.” Despite Chance’s mischievous behavior, his genuine loyalty to his family and willingness to protect and care for his companions make him a highly lovable character. The other animals’ perspectives and interactions also create a touching story of friendship, adventure, and the unbreakable connection between humans and their beloved pets.

Babe — ‘Babe’ (1995)

Babe is a heartwarming film that follows the journey of a piglet named Babe (voiced by Christine Cavanaugh ) who aspires to be a sheepdog. Raised by Farmer Hoggett ( James Cromwell ) on a farm, Babe defies expectations and societal norms by demonstrating his natural herding abilities and a kind heart. Through his determination and the guidance of the farm's animals, including a wise sheepdog named Fly, Babe challenges the status quo and bridges the gap between species.

While he doesn't talk to humans, Babe's ability to communicate and forge connections with different species through his polite and thoughtful speech showcases his intelligence and compassion. Furthermore, his ability to bridge the gap between species and his embodiment of universal values like compassion and perseverance make him a truly exceptional and relatable character. Babe captures the magic of unlikely friendships and the potential for individuals to break barriers and achieve greatness, regardless of their origin or appearance.

Baloo — ‘The Jungle Book’ (2016)

The 2016 adaptation of The Jungle Book is a live-action/CGI hybrid film that follows the story of Mowgli ( Neel Sethi ), a human child raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. As he grows up, Mowgli encounters various jungle creatures, both friend and foe, including the strict panther Bagheera (voiced by Ben Kingsley ), the fun-loving bear Baloo (voiced by Bill Murray ), and the fearsome tiger Shere Khan (voiced by Idris Elba ). As Shere Khan threatens his life due to his human origins, Mowgli embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, navigating the challenges and dangers of the jungle.

Voiced by Bill Murray , Baloo exudes genuine care for Mowgli, offering lighthearted life lessons through his easygoing nature. Baloo's character arc is multidimensional, showing growth as heprioritizese Mowgli's well-being over his desires. With stunning visual effects, a mix of adventure, coming-of-age themes, and a heartfelt connection between Mowgli and his animal friends, the movie brings Rudyard Kipling 's classic tale to life in a new and captivating way.

Paddington Bear — The ‘Paddington’ Movie Series (2014-)

In the 2014 movie Paddington , a young Peruvian bear named Paddington arrives in London seeking a new home. Taken in by the Brown family, Paddington's adventures unfold as he navigates the challenges of city life, spreads kindness, and searches for a mysterious explorer who once visited his homeland. In the 2017 sequel Paddington 2 , which impressively surpassed its predecessor, Paddington is settled with the Browns and discovers an antique pop-up book he wishes to buy for his aunt's 100th birthday. However, when the book is stolen, Paddington and the Browns embark on a quest to unmask the thief, leading to a heartwarming tale of friendship, community, and a commitment to doing the right thing.

Paddington Bear possesses a genuine innocence, unyielding kindness, and a heartwarming eagerness to understand and connect with the world around him. His polite manners, unwavering optimism, and ability to see the best in everyone make him instantly relatable and lovable. Paddington's adventures often lead to heartwarming and humorous scenarios, showcasing his ability to bring out the best in people.

KEEP READING: Disney Live-Action Remakes, Ranked from Worst to Best

Jashanpreet Singh

• Jashanpreet Singh, born on September 7, 1995, in the vibrant land of Punjab, is a passionate choreographer known for his captivating dance routines and creative vision. Growing up amidst the rich cultural tapestry of Punjab, Jashanpreet's love for dance was ignited at a young age. His journey as a choreographer began with humble beginnings, fueled by his innate talent and unwavering determination. Over the years, Jashanpreet has honed his skills, mastering various dance styles and techniques. His choreography is characterized by its seamless blend of tradition and innovation, captivating audiences with each performance. As a choreographer, Jashanpreet has earned acclaim for his dynamic choreographic compositions and meticulous attention to detail. His ability to evoke emotion and tell stories through movement sets him apart in the world of dance. Beyond his professional achievements, Jashanpreet remains deeply rooted in his cultural heritage, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Punjab's music, dance, and folklore. In his free time, Jashanpreet enjoys exploring new avenues of creativity, collaborating with fellow artists, and mentoring aspiring dancers. His passion for dance knows no bounds, driving him to continuously push the boundaries of his artistry. As he continues to inspire and delight audiences with his choreography, Jashanpreet Singh remains committed to his craft, dedicated to spreading the joy of dance and celebrating the beauty of Punjab's cultural heritage. - IMDb Mini Biography By: Digital Presence Solutions

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15 Best American Movies and TV Shows About Running for President

Movies and TV shows like The Ides of Much and Madam Secretary perfectly capture the journey of running for president, and there are more like them.

Ever since George Washington ran for office in 1789 and became the first-ever President of the United States, the race for the White House has always been something to look forward to. Back then, no political parties had been established, so Washington ran as an independent candidate, something that is considered unwise today. At the moment, Americans are once again crossing their fingers as they wait to see who will become POTUS in 2024. Therefore, it seems like the perfect time to watch movies and shows covering this particular topic.

For years, the movie and television industries have keenly dissected American politics and covered everything from the grassroots levels to gubernatorial bids. Still, it’s been more fun watching people run for president on screen. Some Hollywood productions have showcased this realistically in order to educate the public about the proceedings that take place in the corridors of power, while others have exaggerated many details, leaving insiders baffled but thoroughly entertaining viewers in the process.

15 The Ides of March (2011)

The ides of march.

The Ides of March is the kind of film that’s likely to dissuade anyone from ever wanting to be a campaign manager. In it, quagmires keep piling up for Stephen Meyers (Ryan Gosling) as he tries to help presidential candidate Mike Morris (George Clooney) — who is currently the Pennsylvania Governor — to clinch the Ohio Democratic primary. First, he learns that an intern he has begun sleeping with is pregnant with Morris' child. Then he learns that a nosy reporter is planning to publish details about a meeting he had with a rival campaign manager. Solving both of these issues initially appears impossible for the Meyes, but he figures it out thanks to a creative script by Beau Willimon, who wrote the play ( Farragut North ) the movie is based on.

Integrity vs Logic

The Oscar-nominated film shows how the Integrity vs Logic battle always plays out during elections. For example, the influential Senator Franklin Thompson (Jeffrey Wright), who controls 365 delegates in Ohio, offers to endorse Morris on condition that he gives him a high post in his government once he is elected. Morris rejects it because he thinks of himself as too pure to make such deals, which is quite ironic, considering he slept with an intern and ignored her after that. It’s Meyers’ job to make his candidate see sense and when Morris refuses to do so, audiences watch the campaign manager morph from a kind consigliere to a ruthless blackmailer. The movie’s quotes are golden too, the most memorable one being, "A president can lie, start wars, drive the country into bankruptcy, and do anything he wants — but he cannot sleep with an intern.”

Stream it on Max

14 Long Shot (2019)

Long shot (2017).

Moving from the White House to Hollywood seems like a major downgrade, but that’s what President Chambers (played by Better Call Saul ’s Bob Odenkirk) insists he intends to do in the opening minutes of Long Shot . He won't run for a second term because he’d rather be at the Golden Globes than in a meeting with Vladimir Putin. Sensing an opportunity, U.S. Secretary of State Charlotte Field (Charlize Theron) convinces him to endorse her as the next candidate, but her quest faces fresh challenges when she falls for the journalist Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen).

The Difficulties of Being a Female Presidential Candidate

Through humor, the movie explains how tough it is for a female presidential candidate in America. In Charlotte’s own words, “If I'm angry, they call me hysterical; if I'm emotional, they call me weak; if I so much as raise my voice, they call me a b***.” Society has always held female politicians to a higher standard of accountability. That’s why her relationship with Fred raises many eyebrows. The public wants her to date a respectable man in a suit, not a controversial columnist who has the guts to come up with a title like “Why the Two-Party System Can Suck a D***.” Thankfully, Charlotte isn’t the type to follow the rules. She is so wild she even temporarily appoints herself a hostage negotiator at some point. In the end, she becomes POTUS and Fred becomes “First Mister,” a term he coins himself.

Stream it on Netflix

13 Man of the Year (2006)

Man of the year.

The odds of someone like John Oliver or Trevor Noah running for president are incredibly low in the real world, but such a thing happens in Man of the Year . Satirical talk show host Tom Dobbs (Robin Williams) makes a habit of lambasting the president and, after insinuating that he can do a better job than the current leader, his fans start a campaign to get him in office. He wins, but a scandal erupts later on when it emerges that he might have been elected unfairly.

Another Case of Art Foreshadowing Reality

Man of the Year is meant to be a funny movie, but it addresses a serious issue that has been an issue of speculation in recent years — election fraud. Dobbs doesn’t win because he is popular, he wins because the voting machines are faulty, something the company behind them tries very hard to cover up. Director Barry Levinson might not have known it at the time, but he was predicting how the 2016 elections would turn out. An outsider wins, followed by accusations of fraud. Four years later, the fraud discussion would pop up again.

Stream it on Prime Video

12 Commander in Chief (2005 – 2006)

Commander in chief.

Initially content with being Vice President, Mackenzie “Mac” Allen (Geena Davis) finds herself in the Oval Office after the president’s sudden death in Commander in Chief. While in office as America’s first female president, she juggles between dealing with stubborn congressional representatives and her family life. This takes a mental toll on her, but she keeps pushing, vowing to not let down those who believe in her.

A Working Mother’s Headaches

Commander in Chief is more like Long Shot , only that it has a more serious tone and examines a female candidate’s problems from a family perspective. Because President Allen only ascended to power after her predecessor died, many saw her as unqualified, so she worked hard to prove herself and win in the next presidential election. This becomes harder because her family isn’t all that cooperative. Her husband is threatened by her success, while her daughter would rather go on a date than attend a crucial political dinner. Besides that, viewers are treated to a powerful performance from Geena Davis , who is so believable as president that the Emmys recognized her with a “Best Lead Actress” nomination.

Buy or rent on Amazon

11 Wag the Dog (1997)

Wag the Dog has a sex-obsessed POTUS whose eyes cannot fail to spot a skirt. The hedonistic leader of the free world finds himself in a major scandal when he tries to hit on a teenager in the Oval Office at the tail end of his re-election campaign. To make the issue go away, skilled spin doctor Conrad Bean (Robert DeNiro) is brought in, and as expected, he comes up with an outrageous idea. He will hire a Hollywood producer to create a fictional war in Albania so that the media can shift its attention to the conflict.

Exposing the Government’s Alleged Dark Tactics

Though it might have been inspired by the Clinton-Lewinsky incident, Wag the Dog is more relevant than ever because of the recent presidential scandals. Most importantly, it’s a conspiracy theory vehicle disguised as a political film. There have been suggestions, not just in America, that the government always throws the media a bone, so that it can concentrate on it and ignore a major political scandal. A political mess, for example, is followed by major celebrity drama. The decision to bring a director to film a fake war is also a nod to the moon landing conspiracy, where it’s sometimes claimed that the outer-space escapade was merely filmed in a studio.

Rent it on Prime Video

10 House of Cards (2013 – 2018)

House of cards (2013).

Adapted from the BBC series of the same name, House of Cards follows Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey) — a House Majority Whip and South Carolina Congressman — as he crafts an elaborate plan to make himself president shortly after being passed over for appointment as the United States Secretary of State. From murder to manipulation and betrayal, he uses all kinds of Machiavellian tactics to make sure his dream becomes a reality.

Ruthless Pragmatism as a Necessary Tool in Politics

“Ruthless pragmatism” is the message emphasized time and again in House of Cards. Via a series of fourth-wall-breaking monologues , Underwood keeps reminding viewers to always have an eye on the goal and do whatever it takes to reach the finish line. Many of his tactics are questionable, but those with political ambitions can learn a thing or two from him. The show is an advanced politics class, providing lessons on various issues like the importance of having like-minded individuals next to you and the importance of knowledge. “I don’t want to assume. I want to know,” Frank once says, and it is this kind of spirit that catapults him to the White House.

9 The Purge: Election Year (2016)

The purge 2.

In the dystopian world of The Purge: Election Year there is a 12-hour window every year when all crimes are legal. One of the current presidential candidates, Sen. Charlie Roan (Elizabeth Mithell), has made a promise to end the tradition once she gets elected because it's not only silly but also led to the death of the family. This makes her a target, so her Head of Security, Leo Barnes, played by one of the most underrated action stars , Frank Grillo, steps in to shield her from all harm.

A Perfect Movie for Those Who Hate Politics

There is a high percentage of people who feel nothing is exciting about presidential elections. Well, The Purge: Election Year is a recommendable movie for them if they can stand a few horrific moments. Here, there is no Washington office politics and jargon, just good old-fashioned action. Still, it’s not detached from reality. It presents a society where everyone is keen on hurting each other. This can be interpreted as a commentary on America’s gun violence problem. The film also gives audiences a break from the usual Republican vs. Democrat contests and introduces the villainous New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA) party.

8 The American President (1995)

Movies are full of characters who throw away everything for love. “We can leave all this behind and move to another country,” they tend to say, and such is the direction President Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas) initially seems that he is about to take in The American President . He happens to have fallen for the environmental activist Sydney Ellen Wade (Annette Bening), whose past is not so clean, so the public and his rivals are all coming for him. And what makes it all worse is that it happens during an election year.

Another Gem from Aaron Sorkin

Few people know how to tell political stories better than Aaron Sorkin and The West Wing is proof of that. Before he created the Emmy-winning show, he wrote scripts for several movies, including The American President . Sorkin has even admitted that much of Season 1’s plot was mined from material that he edited out of the initial draft of The American President' s script. Though this is a love story, Sorkin touches on various key political issues, notably how bills are lobbied and passed. An environmental bill and a crime bill take up a huge chunk of the plot. Most importantly, the plot isn’t illogical. Shepherd and Wade don’t end up running away together. They end up doing something even better.

Rent on Prime Video

7 Madam Secretary (2014 – 2019)

Madam secretary.

Madam Secretary takes viewers on a slow cruise toward the presidency. The show’s first five seasons cover Elizabeth McCord's (Téa Leoni) triumphs and challenges as she serves as the United States Secretary of State. At the end of Season 5, McCord reveals her plan to become President of the United States, beginning a spirited campaign that sees her eventually get the coveted position. The last season thus dwells on her tenure as America’s first-ever female POTUS.

Foundations Matter a Lot

Most political movies and television shows are known to present ready-made candidates, leaving audiences baffled as to how they reached this level. Thankfully, Madam Secretary shows the gestation process, detailing the numerous things McCord does right to enable her to get to a level where she can vie for the presidency. It isn’t an easy journey, and she is forced to make numerous sacrifices along the way. Viewers will also enjoy the occasional cameos from relevant real-world political figures. Former Secretary of State office occupants, Madeleine Albright, Hillary Clinton, and Colin Powell all play themselves at some point in the show.

6 Head of State (2003)

Chris Rock is brilliant in dramatic roles as his recent work has proved, but he made a bigger name for himself playing comical characters like the presidential candidate Mays Gilliam in Head of State . Content with being an alderman, Gilliam is shocked when he is picked as the Democratic Party nominee. The party's influential members only select him because they believe the Republican candidate is unbeatable. Surprisingly, Gilliam's opinion poll figures increase thanks to a combination of below-the-belt strategies, including dubbing a video of Osama bin Laden claiming he loves the Republican candidate.

Arguably the Funniest Fictional Candidate Ever

There is nothing realistic about Gilliam and his candidature, but he is arguably the most fictional character to ever enter the race for the White House. After all, he was played by Chris Rock at a time when the comedian was in the form of his life. Gilliam is full of ideas on how to make society better and none of them is practical. At one point, he suggests that laws should be written on Destiney’s Child music videos. This way, everybody will see them and stop breaking them. This remark, and many more, make Head of State a laugh-fest that can be enjoyed by audiences of different generations.

5 24 (2001 - 2012)

24 has often been labeled an espionage show, but it is actually a very good political thriller . It primarily focuses on Counter-Terrorist Unit agent Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) as he foils terror attacks, but many of its key supporting characters are presidents. Chief among them is David Palmer whose popularity ratings soar after an assassination attempt, enabling him to become the first Black president. Vice President Noah Daniels also becomes president via the 25th Amendment only to lose his re-election bid.

Diversity in the White House

The FOX hit show didn’t just have one Black president but two. There was a female POTUS too, who turned out to be the most compassionate of the bunch. There are a total of nine presidents and even though most of them are villainous, they serve the important purpose of spooking viewers about all the schemes that can be employed to manipulate election outcomes. Being POTUS is also shown to be a dangerous career in 24 since the majority of them end up dead or incapacitated.

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4 Tanner ’88 (1988)

Tanner '88.

Few shows fuse reality with fiction better than Tanner ’88. In it, fictional Michigan representative Jack Tanner (Michael Murphy) decides to contest for the Democratic Party presidential candidate. However, the odds are against him as he gets less press than real-life candidates Jesse Jackson and Michael Dukakis. Still, he doesn’t give up. With the help of his daughter and campaign manager, his odds start improving, leading to a tense showdown.

It's About the Process, Not the Victory

History only remembers those who win, but good stories don’t always have to have happy endings. There are a couple of losers who had great experiences chasing their dreams and Tanner is one of them. He doesn’t end up as the Democratic Party nominee, but he sure has a lot of fun while trying to make it happen. For those with political dreams, Tanner ’88 is also the perfect show as it points out all the things that could go wrong. The unfortunate thing is that it’s only one season long. Luckily, the sequel series, Tanner on Tanner, focusing on Tanner’s daughter was made years later.

3 Game Change (2012)

Based on the non-fiction book Game Change: Obama and the Clintons, McCain and Palin, and the Race of a Lifetime by political reporters John Heilemann and Mark Halperin Game Change chronicles the campaign of Republican presidential candidate John McCain during the 2008 race. The movie mainly focuses on McCain’s running mate, Sarah Palin, who was widely thought of as a “game changer.”

A Fairly Accurate Biopic

Game Change does everything that a good biopic ought to do. While many “true stories” on-screen heroes imply that their heroes have only themselves to thank for their success (or near success in this case), this particular movie acknowledges everyone who contributed to the campaign. Additionally, it ignores the assumption that most geniuses in political circles are men. Here, several women call the shots and their work is spectacular. The opponent, Barack Obama, is also lauded rather than vilified, making this a film that celebrates American politics in general rather than one that pits Republicans against Democrats.

2 Veep (2016 - 2019)

Veep ’s protagonist Selina Meyer (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) starts as a candidate for an unnamed party's nomination in the 2012 presidential election where she loses Stuart Hughes. She then becomes Hughes’ running mate and ends up as Vice President. During her time in office, she constantly has to deal with being sidelined by Hughes, but her fortunes open up when he decides he won’t run for reelection. Consequently, Meyer becomes the party nominee and ends up as President.

One of the Most Decorated Comedy Shows Ever Made

The Emmys are usually a good way of judging a show’s quality and Veep received a whopping 59 nominations during its time. That’s up there with the greatest small-screen projects of all time, but what makes it good? It’s the humor mostly. Veep doesn’t try to be a smart political show, it simply aims to be a funny one. It also answers important questions about important incidents that might arise during elections. What if both candidates fail to win a majority of the electoral college vote? This happens in the critically-acclaimed comedy during the 2016 Presidential elections. The Senate and the House of Representatives are thus left with the task of choosing the President.

1 Swing Vote (2008)

What if the fate of presidential candidates lay in the hands of one man? In Swing Vote , apolitical New Mexico resident Ernest "Bud" Johnson (Kevin Costner) learns that the two major candidates are tied in his state and that only his vote will determine who wins. Each of them tries to woo him, but since he knows nothing about politics, he decides to hold a final debate in which he reads out questions that have been sent to him by other voters via mail.

It's All About Little Things

It’s highly unlikely that the result of a presidential election will ever come down to one person, but the movie does a great job of explaining how it all happens. What it does better is capture the little things about elections, such as the stubbornness of the press, and the importance of going out to vote. At first, Bud has no interest in going to the ballot box. It takes pressure from his daughter for him to step out, and in the end, he learns that it is absolutely necessary. Costner is magnificent too, in this rare comedic performance, making a case for Hollywood to make more movies about the average voter instead of politicians only.