4. President Andrew Shepard - The American President
Warner BrosThis 1995 film by Aaron Sorkin (who we will come back to later) showed a President who was beyond electable. He was struggling to pass a piece of legislation that would restrict gun laws. He had a formidable presence and was resolute in the face of scathing criticism from his opponents. Unlike Benjamin Asher, President Andrew Shepard is almost real. Legislation restricting gun ownership is one that many Americans are still yearning for given the constant plague of gun violence, yet very few laws are passed, showing the idealism of this character. He is not the victim of a terrorist plot, he is a card carrying ACLU member who is seeking real political change, and in this sense he is perhaps one of the most realistic characters to make this list. Michael Douglas is incredible as President Shepard. He is passionate and dedicated to his cause. He is a testament to the skill of Aaron Sorkin in creating engaging, likable and realistic characters. In press conferences during the film there is a certain aura of authority that enables him to compel the audience to listen to him, and a persuasiveness that would make him a dangerously perfect politician. Who would not want to see this character in the White House?