If you enjoyed 'The Presidents (2005)' and are looking for similar historical documentaries or dramas that delve into leadership, politics, and pivotal moments in history, this list is for you. We've curated 10 compelling movies and shows that capture the essence of power, governance, and the human stories behind the scenes, offering a mix of education and entertainment.

The West Wing (1999)
Description: A political drama that delves into the inner workings of government, focusing on the lives of staffers and the challenges they face in shaping policy and managing crises.
Fact: The show was praised for its fast-paced, walk-and-talk dialogue style, which became a signature of creator Aaron Sorkin's work.


Commander in Chief (2005)
Description: A drama about the first female U.S. president, tackling gender dynamics, leadership challenges, and the complexities of executive decision-making.
Fact: Geena Davis won a Golden Globe for her portrayal of the president, bringing attention to the show's progressive themes.


The Good Wife (2009)
Description: A legal and political drama following a woman rebuilding her life and career after a public scandal involving her husband, a disgraced politician.
Fact: The show was acclaimed for its strong female lead and intricate storytelling, blending courtroom drama with personal and political intrigue.


Veep (2012)
Description: A satirical comedy that lampoons the absurdities and inefficiencies of political life, focusing on the vice president's office and its chaotic operations.
Fact: The show won multiple Emmy Awards for its sharp writing and performances, particularly Julia Louis-Dreyfus's lead role.


Scandal (2012)
Description: A high-stakes drama revolving around crisis management, political intrigue, and the personal lives of those in power, blending suspense with emotional depth.
Fact: The series was created by Shonda Rhimes and marked one of the first times a Black woman was the lead in a network drama in decades.


House of Cards (2013)
Description: A dark political thriller that explores the ruthless machinations of power, ambition, and betrayal within the highest levels of government.
Fact: The series was one of the first major successes for Netflix, helping to establish the platform as a producer of high-quality original content.


The Newsroom (2012)
Description: A behind-the-scenes look at a cable news network, blending sharp dialogue with ethical dilemmas and the intersection of media and politics.
Fact: The series was created by Aaron Sorkin, known for his distinctive, rapid-fire dialogue and idealistic storytelling.


Madam Secretary (2014)
Description: A political drama centered around a female Secretary of State, balancing diplomacy, personal life, and the moral dilemmas of leadership.
Fact: The show was inspired by the real-life experiences of former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.


Designated Survivor (2016)
Description: A political thriller about an unexpected leader thrust into the presidency after a catastrophic attack, navigating uncharted territory with idealism and resilience.
Fact: The concept of a 'designated survivor' is a real-life protocol in the U.S. government to ensure continuity of leadership.


The Good Fight (2017)
Description: A spin-off that continues to explore legal and political themes, with a focus on resilience, justice, and navigating a turbulent socio-political landscape.
Fact: The series was one of the first original shows produced for CBS All Access, marking a shift toward streaming for traditional networks.
