Man of the Year

Man of the Year

Year: 2006

Runtime: 115 min

Language: English

Director: Barry Levinson

DramaThrillerComedyRomance

Robin Williams portrays Tom Dobbs, a popular and charismatic television talk show host who unexpectedly declares his candidacy for president. His unconventional campaign gains surprising momentum, propelling him into the Oval Office. However, a sudden technological error forces him to confront a difficult choice: embrace the immense power of the presidency or return to his former life as a talk show host, questioning his newfound role and responsibilities.

Man of the Year (2006) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

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In a media‑saturated America where headlines are as much entertainment as news, a charismatic late‑night host discovers that his razor‑sharp jokes resonate far beyond the studio lights. Tom Dobbs is a beloved television personality whose quick‑witted commentary captures the public’s frustration with a political system dominated by special interests. When a spontaneous suggestion from an audience member sparks the idea of a presidential run, Dobbs treats the notion as a joke—until the laughter turns into genuine momentum and the nation begins to take notice.

The film paints a world where satire and reality bleed together, creating a vibrant backdrop of talk‑show sets, televised debates, and the relentless buzz of election cycles. Against this backdrop, the story follows Eleanor, a diligent employee at a company that builds the nation’s voting machines, whose meticulous work hints at the fragile underpinnings of the democratic process. Meanwhile, Jack Menken, Dobbs’s seasoned manager, watches his protégé teeter between comedy and the gravitas of public office, aware that the line between performance and policy is razor‑thin.

As the campaign gains traction, the tone balances biting political satire with heartfelt moments, inviting viewers to question how much of leadership is theater and how much is substance. The narrative swirls with the energy of live broadcasts, the pressure of national scrutiny, and the allure of power that can amplify a comedian’s voice—or swallow it. When a sudden technological glitch surfaces at a crucial moment, Dobbs is forced to confront a pivotal dilemma: whether to embrace the intoxicating influence of the highest office or retreat to the familiar rhythm of his talk‑show podium. This tension sets the stage for a story that is as much about personal integrity as it is about the absurdity of modern politics.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 09:57

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Political Satire movies like Man of the Year

Unlikely candidates shake up the political system with humor and heart.If you enjoyed the clever humor and political commentary of Man of the Year, you'll appreciate these movies. This list features witty satires and comedies about elections, campaigns, and unlikely leaders who disrupt the political landscape with their unique perspectives.

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The narrative follows an outsider or unexpected figure who enters the political arena, using humor and charisma to connect with the public. While the tone is often light, the story forces the protagonist to confront real moral challenges and the weight of responsibility.

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These movies are grouped together for their shared focus on political satire, blending comedy with thoughtful commentary. They share a light to medium tone, witty dialogue, and a hopeful outlook where integrity can triumph, making them cohesive for viewers seeking an engaging and uplifting political story.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative structure alternates between the protagonist's humorous or charismatic main journey and a parallel, more serious storyline involving a conspiracy or threat. These two threads eventually collide, forcing the protagonist to reconcile the light and dark elements of the plot.

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Man of the Year

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