Could Two New Documentaries Shift the 2024 Presidential Election?
Documentaries about political figures have often had ripple effects on public opinion. Two new films, The Last Republican and Carville, may have the potential to not only influence the 2024 Oscar race but also shake up the U.S. presidential campaign. The films, focusing on Adam Kinzinger and James Carville, respectively, bring unique perspectives on politics and could sway audiences ahead of the election.
Adam Kinzinger’s Story in The Last Republican
Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican congressman from Illinois, became a prominent figure after he publicly denounced Donald Trump following the January 6 Capitol riots. While Kinzinger initially resisted multiple requests to participate in a documentary, he eventually agreed when approached by director Steve Pink, known for Hot Tub Time Machine. Unlike previous filmmakers who were more interested in Kinzinger’s political future, Pink wanted to delve into the human side of the story, focusing on the personal toll of Kinzinger’s choices.
According to Kinzinger, Pink’s pitch focused on the personal stakes — how his political stance had impacted his family and future, especially his yet-to-be-born child. The resulting documentary, The Last Republican, is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2024. It offers a deep look at Kinzinger’s journey from a loyal Republican to a vocal critic of Trump and the consequences of his defiance.
How The Last Republican Could Impact the Election
The Last Republican could resonate with a wide audience, especially as political tensions in the U.S. remain high. Kinzinger’s stance against Trump, despite its personal costs, may inspire other Republicans who feel similarly but are hesitant to speak out. The film might offer a blueprint for voters and politicians on how to stand up for their beliefs even in the face of intense opposition.
The movie’s release comes at a critical time, with the 2024 election approaching. The film not only highlights Kinzinger’s courage but also raises broader questions about the direction of the Republican party and its future. Pink’s documentary emphasizes the cost of standing by one’s principles, a message that could influence voters on the fence about Trump’s candidacy.
Moreover, The Last Republican has the potential to challenge traditional Republican narratives. By showcasing Kinzinger as a figure who defied Trump’s dominance within the party, it offers a counter-narrative to the idea that loyalty to Trump is a prerequisite for Republican identity. For filmmakers and distributors, releasing the movie before the election could have significant political and cultural implications.
James Carville’s Influence in Carville
On the other side of the political spectrum, Carville, directed by Matt Tyrnauer, centers on political strategist James Carville. Known for his pivotal role in Bill Clinton’s 1992 campaign, Carville remains a colorful and influential figure in Democratic politics. The documentary, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival, follows Carville as he navigates the current political landscape, offering sharp critiques of both parties.
In Carville, the strategist argues that Democrats need to move away from Joe Biden and embrace fresh leadership if they hope to win the 2024 election. This viewpoint, once seen as out of touch, has gained new relevance as more voters express doubts about Biden’s electability. The documentary also revisits Carville’s personal life, including his marriage to Republican operative Mary Matalin, showcasing his ability to bridge political divides.
Can These Documentaries Influence the 2024 Election?
While films alone may not have the power to change electoral outcomes, they can shape public discourse. Documentaries like The Last Republican and Carville have the potential to highlight alternative perspectives and challenge prevailing political narratives.
In the case of The Last Republican, Kinzinger’s story could offer an example to moderate Republicans who are dissatisfied with Trump but unsure of how to navigate their political identity. For Democrats, Carville provides a critique of their current leadership, urging them to reconsider their strategy before it’s too late.
The timing of these documentaries’ releases — before the election — ensures that they will be part of the broader conversation. Carville, which will air on CNN in early October, could reach a wide audience of politically engaged viewers. Similarly, The Last Republican is actively seeking distribution, with its potential value increasing if Trump secures the Republican nomination.
Will Film Companies Get Involved?
Film companies are already showing interest in these politically charged documentaries. CNN Films acquired Carville with the hope of leveraging its content to engage viewers during the election season. For The Last Republican, distributors are still weighing the risks and rewards of releasing the film pre-election. The documentary could serve as a rallying cry for voters who oppose Trump, or it could be used by Republicans as an example of a traitor to the cause.
For filmmakers and studios, the decision to release politically charged films like these during an election year is always a gamble. On one hand, they could play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and inspiring action. On the other hand, if the films fail to resonate with audiences or if their predictions are proven wrong, they could quickly fade into obscurity.
