Elections are often portrayed as a battleground for political ideals, but what happens when the stakes are raised with action-packed scenarios? This curated list of 10 election action films offers a unique blend of political intrigue and adrenaline-pumping action. From corrupt politicians to undercover agents, these movies showcase the darker side of democracy where every vote counts, and sometimes, so does every bullet.

The Candidate (1972)
Description: A young, idealistic lawyer runs for the U.S. Senate, only to find himself caught up in the machinery of modern politics, where image is everything.
Fact: Robert Redford's character's campaign slogan, "Vote for the Candidate," became a cultural reference.


Primary Colors (1998)
Description: A fictionalized account of Bill Clinton's first presidential campaign, this film delves into the personal and political challenges faced by a charismatic candidate.
Fact: John Travolta's portrayal of the Clinton-esque character was both praised and criticized for its accuracy.


Election (1999)
Description: While not an action film in the traditional sense, this dark comedy explores the cutthroat world of high school politics, where a student election turns into a battleground of wit and deceit.
Fact: Reese Witherspoon's role as Tracy Flick was critically acclaimed, and the film was adapted into a TV series in


The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
Description: This political thriller revolves around a brainwashed soldier who becomes a pawn in a political assassination plot during a U.S. presidential election. It's a gripping tale of manipulation and power.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1962 classic, and Denzel Washington's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.


State of Play (2009)
Description: A journalist uncovers a conspiracy involving a congressman's mistress, leading to a political scandal that could alter the outcome of an election.
Fact: The film is based on a British TV series of the same name, and Russell Crowe's performance as the investigative journalist was widely praised.


Swing Vote (2008)
Description: A politically apathetic man becomes the deciding vote in a presidential election, leading to a comedic and dramatic exploration of the electoral process.
Fact: Kevin Costner plays the titular character, and the film was released during the 2008 U.S. presidential election.


The Ides of March (2011)
Description: A young campaign press secretary navigates the treacherous waters of a presidential primary, uncovering secrets that could change the course of the election and his own life.
Fact: George Clooney directed, co-wrote, and starred in this film, which was adapted from the play "Farragut North."


The Campaign (2012)
Description: This political comedy follows two rival candidates in a North Carolina congressional election, where dirty tricks and absurd antics are the order of the day.
Fact: Will Ferrell and Zach Galifianakis improvised much of their dialogue, leading to some of the film's most memorable moments.


Bob Roberts (1992)
Description: A satirical mockumentary about a conservative folk singer running for the U.S. Senate, blending political satire with a mock campaign.
Fact: Tim Robbins wrote, directed, and starred in this film, which was inspired by the real-life political figure Pat Boone.


The Contender (2000)
Description: When the Vice President dies, a female senator is nominated to replace him, leading to a fierce battle over her confirmation that involves personal attacks and political maneuvering.
Fact: Joan Allen received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as the senator.
