The News and Viewpoint departments are scurrying around campus on election season business, but here at Scene — the arts and culture section — it’s pretty much business as usual. Still, we thought we’d chip in. Here are our favorite works of art about politics.
“Nashville” — Peter Mikulski, Scene Editor
“Nashville” is about a lot of things other than politics — country music, life in the 70s, etc. — but the movie is framed by the meteoric rise of Hal Phillip Walker, a presidential candidate who perplexingly wants “to battle vast oil companies, eliminate subsidies to farmers, tax churches, abolish the electoral college, change the national anthem and remove lawyers from government.” In the numinous final scene of the movie, a fatal shooting breaks out at a Walker rally. It’s Nashville, though. The show must go on! Barbara Harris’ character steps on stage and sings this haunting strain, over and over again: “It don’t worry me, it don’t worry me. / You may say that I ain’t free — it don’t worry me.” Watching this movie in light of the Trump campaign and the Butler shooting, you get the sense that director Robert Altman was some sort of prophet.
“You’re Not Elected, Charlie Brown” — Harry Penne, Scene Writer
If you’re in the mood for some apolitical politics this election, I recommend “You’re Not Elected, Charlie Brown,” a 1972 “Peanuts” special written by Charles Schulz and directed by Bill Melendez and released on Oct. 29 in 1972, coinciding with the Nixon vs. McGovern election. The special follows Linus (not Charlie Brown, despite the title) as he runs for student body president. Notable features include the television debut of the bird Woodstock as well as Snoopy’s alter-ego “Joe Cool.” A wholesome fun time, Schulz masterfully approaches politics and elections in a way accessible to younger audiences (such as Lucy, Linus’ campaign manager, polling at the playground and Linus’ campaign values including less homework and more recess) while also humorous for older viewers (such as Sally accusing Linus of selling out when less homework doesn’t pass the principal, saying, “They’re all the same … you elect them, and they weasel out of their promises”).
“The Fog of War” — Christopher Cope, Scene Writer
Robert S. McNamara was arguably the most controversial Secretary of Defense in the history of the United States. He was known primarily for his escalation of the Vietnam War as well as his pioneering use of statistical analysis in military efforts. In the documentary “The Fog of War,” an 87-year-old McNamara offers observations and reflections. At times, he appears openly critical and even mournful about how he handled certain issues, while at other times, he comes across avoidant. This documentary is fulfilling from a psychological perspective. We typically observe government officials at the height of their power, seeing them as these rigid, masked phantoms. “The Fog of War” gives us a glimpse into a man whose mask is much looser. And while McNamara still retains some of his political edge, the documentary provides an intriguing look at the sentimental reminiscing of an old man, someone who feels he has very little to lose.
“X-Men: Days of Future Past” — Andy Ottone, Scene Writer
Nothing is funnier than historical fiction pieces inserting real politicians into their stories. Actually, that’s not true. There is one thing even funnier than that: implying John F. Kennedy, and the rest of the influential Kennedy dynasty, are mutants with superhuman powers. That’s what the X-Men series ended up doing in its 2014 film “Days of Future Past,” all the while validating the conspiracy theories about who killed JFK by saying it was the series’s villain Magneto all along (albeit accidentally). It’s one thing to reference the very famous death of a president in a film set in the ‘70s, but that’s not all. Richard Nixon is a recurring figure in the film (played by Mark Camacho), with the film taking the time out of a serious sequence to do a visual gag which alludes to the Watergate scandal by having a staffer run to a drawer and turn off a recording device during a supervillain’s monologue.
“The West Wing” — Michael Askins, Scene Writer
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful and committed citizens can change the world. It's the only thing that ever has.” The fictional President Jed Bartlet’s line, quoting Margaret Mead, may or may not be realistic, but the world of Aaron Sorkin’s “The West Wing” sure makes you feel like it is. This early 2000s political drama follows the senior staff of the Bartlet White House in their eight years of running the country, and while it has its many comedic and dramatic moments, it shines in its inspirational moments. The witty and eloquent writing, along with the talented cast, allows this remarkable piece of television to exemplify what politics could be, dedicated public servants working towards something bigger than themselves. As if that wasn’t enough, President Bartlet is a proud Notre Dame alumnus often seen sporting a Notre Dame crewneck.
“Veep” — Marissa Panethiere, Graphics Editor
In an election year where the current Vice President is running as the Democratic nominee, the HBO series “Veep” presents masterclass satire about American politics with a surprising amount of applicable critique, despite the show running from 2012 to 2019. The series follows vice president Selina Meyer (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) throughout her time in the White House, working underneath a distant and apathetic president. Pure idiocracy and PR nightmares ensue due to Selina’s erratic staff. Combined with Emmy Award-winning writing and Louis-Dreyfus’ impeccable comedic timing, the pandemonium displayed in each 30 minute episode is a joy to watch but also critiques the US government through its parody. With seven seasons and 65 episodes, there is plenty of material to enjoy. (Season 4’s “Election Night” is a particularly timely episode.)
“Air Force One” — Jack Horton, Scene Writer
Did you like “Die Hard?” If so, can I interest you in “Die Hard” on a plane? Let me add a little more detail about the action-packed 1997 film, “Air Force One.” The film stars Harrison Ford as President James Marshall who, after delivering an impactful speech on foreign policy in Moscow, loses control of his plane to Russian hijackers who demand the U.S. to release their group’s leader. Although he has the chance to escape, James stays on board to rescue his family and the hostages. Ford plays an older action hero than we usually see from him, but he still gives a convincing performance as a president and former combat veteran. In the era of “Die Hard” rip-offs, this one is an enjoyable watch with several movie stars.
“JFK” — Luke Foley, Scene Writer
Most political conspiracy theories these days seem predicated on anti-intellectualism and unproductive denialism rather than critical skepticism of our world. This is very tragic because I love a good conspiracy theory. However, I know that if the current state of conspiracy theories leaves me unamused, I can always rely on Oliver Stone’s “JFK.” The 1991 film is all about the granddaddy of conspiracy theories: the deep state was behind the assassination of the 35th president. The film tackles the topic with manic rage and poignant grief. The editing is delirious yet brilliant, the performances are wonderfully campy, and its fever-dream narrative will leave you questioning everything. It treats the assassination of Kennedy as the death of America, the usurpation of democracy by the military-industrial complex. And even though the film’s purported truth about the assassination is sometimes nonsensical as it is perceptive, this underlying ethos of the film is immensely moving and timeless.
“Red, White & Royal Blue” — Caroline Collins, Assistant Managing Editor
Based on the bestselling book “Red, White & Royal Blue,” this rom-com is a classic enemies-to-lovers plot which features Prince Henry (Nicholas Galitzine) and Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the president of the United States (Taylor Zakhar Perez). After a tussle at the prince’s brother’s wedding ends with the wedding cake toppling over, Alex, the White House's resident troublemaker, is assigned to befriend Prince Henry in an effort to smooth over public relations. Their relationship quickly moves from texting to transatlantic rendezvous; Henry is poised and slightly awkward, while Alex is the life of the party. I’m not really into politics, but politics and a love story? Count me in. Meanwhile, Alex, the son of the first woman president of the United States, hatches a plan to help his mother win re-election by flipping his home state of Texas. In the spirit of potentially electing the first woman president this week, “Red, White & Royal Blue” is worth the watch (or rewatch).
“Fortunate Son” — Madyson Casiano, Scene Writer
Every time the opening to “Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival hits my earbuds, I suddenly feel like enlisting in the armed forces and trekking through the jungle as a suave, mustached man (played by Miles Teller). But then I remember that I am a helpless civilian and a mustache-less woman, and that that’s not what the song is about. Regardless of its ironic usage in modern film depictions of the Vietnam War, its message was an anti-conscription sentiment — something which struck a chord with households frustrated by the flawed systems of the ‘70s. Today, the song is synonymous with Independence Day barbecues. While its historical meaning may not exactly apply anymore, it still has something to offer. “Fortunate Son” is about pursuing purpose in spite of high expectations and bitter disappointment.
“Home Alone 2: Lost In New York” – Claire Watson, Scene Writer
We’ve all seen all the presidential debates and campaign ads, but there's nothing like Donald Trump’s good ol’ cameo in the iconic Christmas movie “Home Alone 2: Lost In New York.” If you’re like me, you take the time to watch the 1992 sequel every year. Featuring young troublemaker Kevin McCallister as he navigates New York, we eventually end up in the Plaza Hotel where Kevin is seen staring straight at future president Donald Trump (who at the time owned the Plaza). He asks the famous line “Where’s the lobby?” to which Trump responds, “Down the hall and to the left.” While not necessarily relevant to the election, considering the movie came out in the 90s, I always find joy in seeing that scene.
“Parks and Recreation” — Emma Duffy, Social Media Editor
This is one of the very few shows that has earned the coveted place of a favorite rewatch of mine. Whether I actually want to pay attention to the show or just have it in the background as I do work, it never disappoints. Even though it is a comedy, it touches on a lot of real political issues — especially the idea of women in government. If recent presidential debates have been disappointing to you, watch Season 2, Episode 20 to see that we have somehow devolved into being even less realistic than a comedic skit. No matter the kind of person you are, there’s a character to relate to and a scene that you won’t be able to stop watching and referencing. It is a great way to get involved in the humorous nature of the state of American politics.
“The Politician” — Jayden Espinoza, Scene Copyeditor
“The Politician” is as fantastical as it is accurate reflecting modern day politics. It examines topics from identity politics to endorsements, with a whimsical character from Jessica Lange and a wildly out of touch Gwyneth Paltrow, all set in the backdrop of an overly luxurious Santa Barbara high school — oh, and did I mention ghosts?
“Designated Survivor” — Patrick Anders, Scene Writer
When the worst happens, what follows? This is the question “Designated Survivor” attempted to answer during its run on ABC. The show, set after a bombing during the State of the Union, follows designated survivor Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Thomas Kirkman assuming the presidency. Two main threads prevail throughout its run. FBI agents and other sneaky folk constantly run around trying to get to the bottom of the conspiracy, while President Kirkman and his staff must continue with the day-to-day governance of the United States. One of its most memorable moments was not one of the detective scenes, but instead when Kirkman gets a piece of legislation passed through Congress that was previously expected to lose by one vote. This happens because he spoke to the senator who switched her vote earlier that day, yet everyone had incorrectly presumed that she would vote how her predecessor had. This lesson that politics is based on relationships has stuck with me, and it's a reminder to never discount the power of the human touch.
“Election” — Marguerite C. J. Marley, Scene Copyeditor
In Omaha, Nebraska, U.S. history teacher Jim McAllister (Matthew Broderick) does not want Tracy Flick (Reese Witherspoon) to win the student council president race. She had an affair with his fellow teacher/best friend, which led to him getting fired. Tracy, a complete know-it-all and an ambitious student, plans on running unopposed, but football star Paul Mutizer (Chris Klein) recently broke his leg in a skiing accident and now has the free time to run against Tracy. His little sister Tammy (Jessica Campbell) decides to run against him too after her ex-girlfriend becomes his lover and campaign manager. This black comedy is incredible. Based on the book of the same name, it provides a humorous look at the American high school election and how nobody really cares about it. It leads Broderick and Witherspoon to reach their A game. It’s incredible how they’re able to have a conversation about election posters but actually make it about having an affair with their teacher. This movie is highly underrated — I’ve watched it nearly 5 times, and I always find it funny.
“On the Basis of Sex” — Amelia Beltran, News Writer
Besides the perfectly pink and humorous “Legally Blonde,” my favorite movie on law and politics would have to be “On the Basis of Sex.” The movie is based on the life of late US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, played here by Felicity Jones, and her fight for equal rights in the early 1970’s. In the film, a young Ginsburg is seen taking up this fight with the tenth circuit, but not with a case that is sexist towards a woman. The victim in her case is a man. Though not necessarily connected to our imminent election, one theme does stick out that has become a major factor in the candidates' pitches, women’s rights. Especially during this election, I think we all should remember how far our ancestors have come to have placed both men and women on (almost) equal footing and that we should not regress but progress. And remember, in this political season, “We're not asking you to change the country. We're asking you to protect the right of the country to change.”
