16 for '16: The Contenders

Every four years, America picks a President from an often crowded field of contenders. These men and women navigate a minefield of contentious issues, while every aspect of their personal lives and past are heavily scrutinized. Hosted by Carlos Watson, this eight-part PBS-aired documentary series presents thumbnail sketches of 16 figures—successful candidates as well as an assortment of also-rans and wannabes—who aspired to the White House. The episodes are divided into categories with names like "straight talkers," "flamethrowers," "technocrats," and "visionaries." One of the most unusual candidates was Shirley Chisholm, who ran in 1972, proudly claiming to be "unbought and unbossed." In 1992, hard-right conservative Pat Buchanan used his candidacy to lay out grievances and galvanize evangelicals, as much as make any attempt to be elected. Successful businessman Ross Perot and consumer advocate Ralph Nader won support for their crusades, tilting the '92 and 2000 elections in unexpected ways (some Democrats still blame "spoiler" Nader for helping to elect George W. Bush). In a harbinger of tabloid journalism's increasing power, 1988 candidate Gary Hart, suspected of having an affair, challenged the media to follow him and they did, discovering incriminating photos that promptly sunk his presidential bid. Sarah Palin withered under the relentless media spotlight, while Obama proved a master of using social media technology to mobilize supporters. In addition to a discussion on style and innovations, the series looks at issues such as Barry Goldwater's opposition to civil rights bills, a move that pleased purists, but led to his landslide defeat in 1964, and the Willie Horton prison furlough controversy, which was used to discredit Michael Dukakis (Horton raped a woman while on furlough during Dukakis's term as governor). In the brief time given to each candidate, the series does a thorough, fair job, portraying strengths and weaknesses. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)