Josh Greenbaum’s latest documentary tackles the storied tradition of presidential parody. This film features an assortment of SNL alumni and comedy legends, including Dana Carvey, Will Ferrell, Maya Rudolph, Keegan-Michael Key, Alec Baldwin, Kate McKinnon and more, who have played presidents and prominent political figures. Tracing the path of presidential impressions begins with light-hearted jokes poking fun at our leaders and culminates with present day threats of censorship and turbulent controversy. 

Playing POTUS investigates the role of comedy within American politics, exploring how jokes have the power to alter perceptions and even change the outcomes of elections. As the country’s priorities shift and popular media becomes more closely intertwined with politics, impressions blend with reality into the public consciousness. In the current climate, where fears of censorship have become undeniable, it is vital to understand how political comedy fosters a healthy democracy.—Cara Cusumano
After the Premiere: A conversation with special guests from the film.