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By the People: The Election of Barack Obama
Common Sense says
- NR
- 2009
- 116 minutes
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that By the People: The Election of Barack Obama is a documentary about Obama's first campaign for president. The only content of concern is some strong language (one "f--ked," "s--t," and variations a number of times), but tweens and under are unlikely to enjoy the slow pace for the nearly two-hour duration. Best for teens and up who appreciate the historic significance of electing the first African-American president or for budding politicos who'd enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at running an underdog's national election campaign. Everyone is shown in a positive light; instead of a tell-all, it's an attempt to capture the important moments of a historic political campaign from the point of view of those most closely involved.
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What's the story?
From the earliest days of an unknown senator from Illinois to the final count on election night, cameras follow Barack Obama's first presidential campaign.
Is it any good?
This is a documentary about the historic significance of electing the first African-American president of the United States. If you're looking for a neutral examination of the man, his campaign, or his politics, you won't find it here. Everyone in it, from the candidate to staffers to volunteers in small states is painted in a positive light. Budding politicos seeking to appreciate an important milestone in U.S. political history may enjoy it, especially if they're patient.
The story develops much too slowly, especially given that we already know how it ends. A few campaign issues are mentioned, but none is explored in depth. The people in the film are clearly aware of the cameras, and many scenes feel staged thanks to the lack of spontaneous and genuine behavior. Where the movie does capture genuine emotion is among those supporters who are overcome by the significance of Obama's success and eventual election. If only some of that feeling could have been sustained over more of the film.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about running for president. What do you think the best part would be? What would be the hardest part?
Did it surprise you that a 9-year-old boy volunteered for Obama's campaign? Have you ever thought about volunteering for a candidate? Why, or why not?
Do you think this documentary paints a fair, unbiased picture of Obama and his campaign? Should it? Why, or why not?
Movie details
- In theaters: August 7, 2009
- On DVD or streaming: January 12, 2010
- Cast: Barack Obama, Ronnie Cho, Tommy Vietor
- Directors: Amy Rice, Alicia Sams
- Studios: Citi Productions, Class 5 Films, Green Film Company, Reason Pictures
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: History, Misfits and Underdogs
- Run time: 116 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.