Electoral Cinema: A Journey Through Presidential Campaigns from Reagan to Trump

The Enduring Legacy of John Ford in Political Cinema

John Ford’s cinematic brilliance continues to resonate through American film and politics. In his classic film The Last Hurrah (1958), a poignant scene captures the twilight of a once-mighty political legacy, embodied by Spencer Tracy’s character, Frank Skeffington. As he walks against a jubilant crowd celebrating his rival’s victory, Ford encapsulates a deep sense of disenchantment—illustrating a shift from traditional politics to a new era dominated by television and populism. This theme of disillusionment underscores many contemporary films examining the consequences of political choices in the United States.

Henry Fonda’s Reflection on American Politics

The spirit of Ford’s work is revived in the thought-provoking documentary Henry Fonda for President, directed by Alexander Horwath. By exploring the life and beliefs of actor Henry Fonda, the film serves as a microcosm for understanding the political landscape leading up to the U.S. presidential elections on November 5. Using archival audio from Fonda’s last interview, the documentary delves into the actor’s dismay over Ronald Reagan’s ascent to power, presenting a lens through which the historical erosion of truth in favor of myth can be critically examined.

Portrayal of Reagan and the Rise of Television Politics

As Fonda reflects on Reagan’s ability to communicate effectively with the masses—often by telling them what they wanted to hear—the documentary highlights the dangers of such populist tactics. This development is echoed in the recent film Reagan, a biopic that portrays the former president’s ultra-capitalist ideology and anti-communist fervor. Such portrayals link the fabric of Hollywood to the socio-political movements of the time, revealing how cinematic narratives shape and reflect national sentiments.

The Shadow of Donald Trump in Modern Cinema

The landscape of American cinema further explores these themes through another notable recent release, The Apprentice, directed by Ali Abbasi. This film investigates Donald Trump’s rise to power while spotlighting the influences of his mentor, Roy Cohn, who imparted tactical rules that guide contemporary political strategies: “Attack, attack, and attack.” The performance of Sebastian Stan as Trump reveals the complexities behind the tycoon’s persona, reminding viewers of the longstanding connection between showbiz and politics.

From Chaos to Cynicism: A New Generation of Filmmakers

The undercurrents of cynicism against the backdrop of modern politics manifest vividly in works such as The Sweet East by Sean Price Williams and Civil War by Alex Garland. While Williams adopts a tongue-in-cheek approach to dissect conspiracy theories through the eyes of a teenage girl, Garland addresses more chilling realities, such as the actions of supremacist militias. Together, these films reflect a growing discomfort with the political scenario in the United States and engage viewers in critical discussions surrounding identity and morality.

The Impact of Errol Morris’ Documentary

Amidst rising tensions in U.S. politics, Errol Morris’ documentary Separated examines the traumatic separation of immigrant families under Trump’s administration, highlighting policies that continue to echo in current heated debates. With its careful examination of lengthening consequences, Morris’ work stands as an urgent call for awareness amid political narratives rich with misinformation.

The Question of Acceptance in Political Defeat

As the election date approaches, many are left wondering whether Trump would accept a potential defeat, a stark contrast to the integrity portrayed in Ford’s films. Reflecting on the character of Frank Skeffington, who gracefully accepts his political loss, one yearns for similar fortitude in today’s political figures. Ford’s storytelling challenges current narratives, pushing for a reenvisioning of political conduct in the theatrical arena of American politics.

As we navigate through an electoral landscape replete with cinematic imagery and cultural critiques, the legacy of directors like John Ford remains relevant, prompting an examination of who we are as a nation and how we choose to tell our stories. To learn more about the intersections of film and politics, you can check out additional insights in our articles on [American cinema](https://english.elpais.com/culture) and [the evolution of political narratives](https://english.elpais.com/usa).