Before Barack Obama: Alternative presidents
A connection between the rise of once-presumptive Democratic nominee Barack Obama and positive black presidential role models in film and television might be made by considering the onetime Illinois senator’s large base of young supporters -- mass consumers of pop culture. ”It’s interesting that movies have made acceptable what was once radical,” said John W. Matviko, author of ”The American President in Popular Culture.” After its seen a couple of times, its no longer unusual. That kind of subtle persuasion has impact. Rodney Barnes, co-executive producer of The Boondocks, said the presence of actors Dennis Haysbert and Morgan Freeman in presidential roles made white people a lot more comfortable. Made them think, ‘Yeah, this is possible.’ (Alex Brandon / Associated Press)
Chris Rock stars in the 2003 movie “Head of State.”
In its increasing use of story lines depicting strong female political leaders, Hollywood may also have played a role in preparing voters for at least considering Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton to be a viable candidate for the Democratic nomination for president. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)
