Unless you live in an underground bunker, you know that yet another fraught and frazzling election day is just one week away. So what better time to brush up on our presidential exes? This list of docs cover everything from Nixon’s home movies to Carter’s rockstar entourage(?!), reminding us that the Oval Office has well... seen things. And while future docs on today’s politics might require a parental advisory, these picks are packed with just the right mix of inspiration, aspiration, and frankly, myopic, self-serving greed. So, grab a popcorn – and maybe your sample ballot – for a binge-session of our democracy's best and blightest. ⬅️ Not a typo.
- The Roosevelts: An Intimate History (2014) Directed by PBS Doc Daddy Ken Burns, this 7-part series examines the lives of Theodore, Franklin, and Eleanor Roosevelt, revealing their personal and political impact on American history. Come for Teddy and Frank, but stay for Eleanor.
- Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll President (2020) While we currently love our nation's longest living President for his deep commitment to his morals and ethics, this film, directed by Mary Wharton, explores Jimmy Carter’s unique bond with musicians and the role it played in his public appeal.
- Nixon by Nixon: In His Own Words (2014) Directed by Peter W. Kunhardt, this HBO documentary uses archival audio recordings from Nixon’s secret tapes, giving an insider view of his thoughts and policies. Spoiler alert: It ends badly.
- Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union (2021) Now cleanse the icky taste of scandal from your pallet with yet another Kunhardt-led film! This HBO documentary follows President Barack Obama’s hair-graying journey to the presidency and beyond. The series weaves together interviews, archival footage, and speeches, painting a portrait of Obama as both a politician and a cultural figure who sought to inspire a “more perfect union.”
- George W. Bush: This 2-part documentary, directed by Barak Goodman + Jamila Ephron, covers Bush’s journey from Texas to the White House. You should def make this doc a part of your election prep "strategery".
- Clinton: Also directed by Barak Goodman, this 2-part series explores Bill Clinton’s early life, his rapid political rise, and the scandals that marked his presidency. It gives a nuanced view of Clinton’s complexity as both a charismatic leader and a controversial figure. Sax solos not included.
- The Reagans: (2020) A 4-part miniseries released by Showtime and directed by Matt Tyrnauer. The series revisits Reagan’s Hollywood origins, conservative policies, and political rise, with a special focus on Nancy Reagan’s influence. The Reagans examines controversial aspects of his legacy, like his approach to racial politics and the conservative media landscape he helped shape, while providing a fresh perspective on the Reagan administration’s enduring impact on American politics
Love this election prep walk through presidential history? No need to thank me! (But omg please send me a 📍 to that bunker.)
