Oklahoma City native Amy Rice, has co-produced and co-directed a documentary film about Barack Obama’s campaign and ultimate election that in time may also be heralded as a classic film about a political leader.
Rice is the daughter of Oklahoma City attorney Hugh Rice, brother of Sen. Andrew Rice (D-Oklahoma City). Her other brother, David Rice, died in the attack on the 9/11 World Trade Center in New York City.
The Obama film, made with colleague Alicia Sams, is titled “By The people, The Election of Barack Obama” It ran on HBO and PBS several months ago, and has recently been released by HBO on a DVD including commentaries by both Rice and Sams.
The film begins with Obama as a US senator from Illinois and concludes with his victory on election night.
Bill Clinton was the last Democrat to win the White House. He was the subject of a documentary, “The War Room.” It revealed a volatile campaign staff awash in constant conflict during that Presidential race.
Conversely, the Barack Obama and staff shown in this film are a remarkably calm, cool group of people.
That was the case even when they are dealing with the controversy such as statements made by the candidate’s former pastor, the Reverend Jeremiah Wright that contradicted parts of Obama’s platform. His key people appear unflappable. But the passionate young volunteers that flocked to Obama’s receive ample film time.
Ronnie Cho, a spirited organizer for Obama in the Iowa Primary is shown working tirelessly for the candidate nationwide, but always making time to stay in constant contact with his Mom.
There is also a nine year old boy featured in the movie who makes calls in Iowa on Obama’s behalf. And Obama is shown as being graceful and thoughtful in defeat when he calls Hillary Clinton to congratulate her after she beat him in the New Hampshire Primary.
The scenes of the candidate and his wife together reflect their considerable mutual affection, and their warm, happy family with their two daughters.
And the determination, eloquence, and graciousness displayed by Barrack Obama in this film may inspire future generations of leaders who want to improve the lives of all Americans.
