12 Best Political Documentaries To Watch Before The 2024 Election

With the 2024 presidential election fast approaching and the news cycle spinning at full throttle, staying informed has never been more crucial. Streamers offer a lineup of must-watch documentaries that delve into the heart of politics, social issues, and the electoral process. These films unpack the nitty-gritty of political campaigns, the media’s sway on public opinion, and the broader socio-political landscape. They’re essential viewing for anyone aiming to navigate the whirlwind before hitting the polls. From hard-hitting investigative reports to poignant personal stories, these documentaries provide the context and analysis needed to help voters make well-informed decisions.

1. “Living Undocumented” (2019)

“Living Undocumented” is a powerful Netflix documentary series that provides an intimate look into the lives of undocumented immigrants in the United States. Through personal stories and firsthand accounts, the series explores the challenges and fears faced by individuals and families living without legal status. It delves into the complexities of immigration policy, the emotional toll of deportation threats, and the resilience of those navigating this precarious existence. By highlighting the human impact of immigration laws, “Living Undocumented” offers a poignant and eye-opening perspective on a critical issue in contemporary society.

2. “Feminists: What Were They Thinking” (2018)

“Feminists: What Were They Thinking?” is a thought-provoking documentary that examines the feminist movement of the 1970s through the lens of a powerful photographic project. The film revisits the iconic images and stories of women who were involved in the feminist movement, exploring their aspirations, struggles, and the cultural impact they had at the time. By revisiting these historical photos and the voices of the women behind them, the documentary offers a reflective look at the evolution of feminist ideals and the ongoing relevance of their activism. It highlights both the progress made and the continuing challenges faced by women in the pursuit of equality.

3. “Knock Down The House” (2019)

“Knock Down the House” is a compelling documentary that follows the grassroots campaigns of four women running for Congress in the 2018 midterm elections. The film highlights Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Cori Bush, Paula Jean Swearengin, and Amy Vilela, showcasing their personal stories, struggles, and the obstacles they face as they challenge established political figures. With an emphasis on their determination and the transformative potential of grassroots activism, the documentary provides a powerful look at how these candidates seek to bring change to the American political system.

4. “Reversing Roe” (2018)

“Reversing Roe” is a documentary that explores the complex and contentious history of the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision and the ongoing battle over reproductive rights in the United States. The film examines the efforts by anti-abortion activists and organizations to overturn or undermine the landmark ruling, as well as the broader implications for women’s health and reproductive freedom. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert commentary, “Reversing Roe” provides an in-depth look at the legal, political, and social dynamics shaping the debate over abortion rights.

5. “Saving Capitalism” (2017)

“Saving Capitalism” is a documentary that examines the challenges and inequities within the American capitalist system. Directed by Jacob Kornbluth and featuring former Labor Secretary Robert Reich, the film explores how the economic and political systems favor the wealthy and powerful while leaving many ordinary people behind. It highlights the growing income inequality and the erosion of the middle class, offering insights into the ways in which capitalism can be reformed to ensure fairer economic opportunities for all. The documentary combines Reich’s analysis with real-world examples to advocate for systemic change and a more equitable economic future.

6. “All In: The Fight for Democracy” (2020)

“All In: The Fight for Democracy” is a documentary that explores the systemic issues affecting voting rights and electoral integrity in the United States. Featuring Stacey Abrams, the film investigates voter suppression tactics, gerrymandering, and other barriers that disproportionately impact marginalized communities. It combines personal narratives with historical context and expert analysis to reveal how these practices undermine democracy and disenfranchise voters. The documentary advocates for reform and highlights the ongoing struggle to ensure fair and accessible voting for all citizens.

7. “The Swamp” (2020)

“The Swamp” is a documentary that provides an insider’s look at the inner workings of American politics, focusing on the efforts of a group of congressional outsiders who aim to challenge the status quo and reform the political system. Directed by Daniel DiMauro and Morgan Pehme, the film follows Reps. Matt Gaetz and Thomas Massie as they navigate the complexities of Washington, D.C., and attempt to address issues like partisanship, lobbying, and government transparency. Through their experiences, “The Swamp” offers a critical perspective on the obstacles faced by those trying to bring meaningful change to the political landscape.

8. “13th” (2016)

“13th” is a powerful documentary directed by Ava DuVernay that examines the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film explores the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which abolished slavery but included a clause allowing for involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. “13th” argues that this loophole has been exploited to perpetuate racial inequality and disproportionately incarcerate Black Americans. Through archival footage, expert interviews, and historical analysis, the documentary sheds light on the systemic racism embedded in the U.S. criminal justice system. Its impact has been significant, sparking important conversations about prison reform, racial injustice, and the need for systemic change.

9. “Boys State” (2020)

“Boys State” is a documentary that follows a group of high school students participating in a week-long simulation of government known as “Boys State,” where they create their own political parties and run for office. The film captures the competitive and often intense nature of this political exercise, showcasing the students’ strategies, debates, and personal ambitions as they navigate the process of running for various government positions. Directed by Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, “Boys State” offers an insightful and sometimes unsettling look at the political process, ambition, and the influence of political ideologies on young people. It provides a snapshot of how political dynamics play out in a microcosm of American democracy.

10. “Immigration Nation” (2020)

“Immigration Nation” is a documentary series that provides a detailed and critical look at the U.S. immigration system. Directed by Christian Keller and aired on Netflix, the series offers an in-depth exploration of the policies, enforcement practices, and human stories behind the American immigration system. It follows both the experiences of immigrants navigating the system and the work of those enforcing immigration laws, including the controversial practices and the impact on communities. The series reveals the complexities and challenges of immigration policy, highlighting the personal and societal ramifications of current practices and the ongoing debates surrounding immigration reform.

11. “The Fight” (2020)

“The Fight” is a documentary that follows a team of lawyers from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) as they battle significant legal challenges under the Trump administration. Directed by Elyse Steinberg, Josh Kriegman, and Eli Despres, the film highlights the ACLU’s efforts to defend civil liberties and fight against policies perceived as threats to constitutional rights. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at the intense legal battles and the personal sacrifices of the lawyers involved, illustrating the impact of their work on issues such as immigration, reproductive rights, and civil rights. The documentary underscores the ongoing struggle to uphold democratic principles and human rights.

12. “Disclosure” (2020)

“Disclosure” is a documentary directed by Sam Feder that examines the representation of transgender people in film and television. The film explores how media portrayals have influenced public perceptions of transgender individuals, highlighting both harmful stereotypes and positive progress. Through interviews with transgender actors, activists, and scholars, “Disclosure” provides a critical analysis of the impact of media representation on transgender rights and visibility. The documentary sheds light on the historical and ongoing challenges faced by the transgender community in achieving accurate and respectful representation.

In this crucial moment for our country, staying informed about political issues is more important than ever. Watching political documentaries, doing your homework, and ensuring you’re registered to vote are essential ways to flex your democratic muscles. These actions help you navigate the twists and turns of today’s political landscape, understand the ripple effects of policies, and harness the power of your vote. By diving into these resources, you’ll be ready to make informed decisions and spark meaningful change, reinforcing our democratic process and championing a fairer society for all. So, gear up and get engaged – democracy needs you!