Podcast Episode 98: TCM Political Films With Ben Mankiewicz

Looking at the best films Hollywood has served up about politics

Friday, November 4, 2016

Credit: Paramount

Above: TCM is showcasing films about politics and political issues in honor of the upcoming election. One of the films highlighted is Preston Sturges "The Great McGinty" in which Brian Donlevy plays a bum who rises through the political machine.

Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz talks about films that highlights the best and worst in American politics.

Aired: November 1, 2016 | Transcript

Aired 11/3/16 on KPBS News

With the presidential election just around the corner, Turner Classic Movies is programming a political film series that highlights the best and worst in American politics.

It's been an interesting week in politics so check out what Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz picks as the films that highlight the best and worst in American politics.

Politics provides a rich source of inspiration for filmmakers. Presidential hopefuls, corrupt politicians, idealistic candidates and jaded campaign managers have all made memorable characters. TCM is highlighting a collection of the most diverse and interesting American films about politics, politicians and the political process as this heated presidential election comes to an end Nov. 8.

TCM host Ben Mankiewicz gets to tap into more than just his movie expertise for this series. His family ties make him the perfect person to look at the convergence of Hollywood and politics since his grandfather, Herman J. Mankiewicz, wrote "Citizen Kane"; his great-uncle, Joe Mankiewicz, wrote and directed "All About Eve"; and his father, Frank Mankiewicz, was Robert Kennedy’s press secretary.

TCM is showcasing political films, as well as documentaries addressing political issues, in its "To Tell the Truth" series. The films began last week, but if you've missed any you can watch then through the TCM app Watch TCM.

You can also listen to Cinema Junkie's past TCM podcasts on the 2016 TCM Film Festival and TCM Spotlight on Condemned Films.

Beth Accomando
Arts & Culture Reporter

opening quote marks closing quote marks I cover arts and culture, from Comic-Con to opera, from pop entertainment to fine art, from zombies to Shakespeare. I am interested in going behind the scenes to explore the creative process; seeing how pop culture reflects social issues; and providing a context for art and entertainment.