This utterly captivating classic follows Bill Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign, as strategists plot, react, and attack to ensure the Arkansas governor is elected president. Focusing on lead strategist James Carville and communications director George Stephanopoulos, relative unknowns when the film was made, The War Room highlights the exceptional team behind the candidate who would become the 42nd President of the United States. Carville’s rousing speeches to the staff and volunteers are as compelling as the candidate’s remarks at the podium, while Stephanopoulos goes on the offensive with the press about Governor Clinton’s “character problems.” Together they navigate the Gennifer Flowers scandal and the “read my lips” attack on George Bush, among numerous other campaign events. This is not a race won or lost by the principles of one person; there is a passionate army charting the course toward Election Day. Whether strategizing around personal appearances, sign designs, attack ads, or talking points, the film lays bare the meticulous calculations behind an endless line of decisions, documenting the intensity and genius responsible for Clinton’s landslide victory.  ST

Filmmaker Q&A following screening