The vast majority of presidential movies focus on presidents being presidents—sitting at the head of state, living the most consequential moments of their lives. For instance: FDR overcoming polio (Sunrise at Campobello), and JFK nearly dying in battle (PT 109). But Barack Obama isn’t like most heads of state. And instead of an epic, he got a rom-com, because his presidency has always been about wishful thinking and potential—the cornerstone of every first date.
Read MEL staff writer Sam Dean’s essay on what Southside With You says about Obama’s legacy here.
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