The Presidents on Film

America’s executive office and its occupant have found their way into numerous films—more than 400 since 1903. Ranging from respectful biographical presentations to caricatures, the presentations of presidents on film reflect contemporary perceptions of the office. This is an all-inclusive survey of commercial theatrical films that depict an actual American president as a character. An analysis of these depictions reveals a great deal about the presidents—and the filmmakers. The main body of the work provides a brief summary of each administration along with a commentary on the overall nature of films in which the featured president appeared. Each relevant film is then discussed with the credits, plot summary, description of the presidential appearance and, when possible, an assessment of the presidential portrayal included.

Sarah Miles Bolam has worked in journalism and taught for the State University of New York system. Thomas J. Bolam is a retired executive who spent most of his career in the Far East. They divide their time between New York and Texas.