The Politician
By Sophia Fineza
The Politician was definitely NOT what I was expecting it to be. I thought I was getting another teen drama about a student body campaign, but there is so much more to unpack here. The show brings up issues of money, race, sexual orientation, and privilege and explores how it affects the way government is built, high school or otherwise. Topically relevant and an easy watch, The Politician is the show you watch when you feel like getting mad at the government again. Also, Ben Platt graces us with his angel-like singing voice. What else could you ask for?
logline: One day, Payton Hobart is going to be President of the United States. But for now, he has to make it through Saint Sebastian High School, which contains the gorgeous jock River Barkley, cancer patient Infinity Jackson, b*tchy mean girl Astrid Sloan, and Payton’s two best friends, McAfee Westbrook and James Sullivan.
My favorite characters:
Ben Platt as Peyton Hobart - you want to hate him, but you just can’t
Gwyneth Paltrow as Georgina Hobart - the cool mom who doesn’t call herself “the cool mom”
Lucy Boynton as Astrid Sloan - her “i’m better than you” attitude gives me huge regina george vibes, and i love it
David Corenswet as River Barkley - eye candy, but also really freaking smart. his character arc was unexpected, and a nice change from the typical popular guy curve.
This show is rated TV-MA. Here’s why:
Language througout
Smoking
Something I liked: Ben Platt plays such a different character than his other roles (Benji, Pitch Perfect and Evan Hansen, Dear Evan Hansen), and it’s really exciting to see him branch out.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Number of Seasons: 1