Running With Beto

Running With Beto is an intriguing 2019 political documentary that goes behind the scenes of one of the most thrilling and engrossing races in modern American history. It delves deep into the charismatic and dynamic Beto O'Rourke's grassroots campaign for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas. The movie manages to captivate its audience by providing an intimate and unfiltered look at the protagonist's journey, spotlighting the significance of the decisions he makes, the obstacles he encounters, and the impact he has on people.

The film sets off by introducing Beto O'Rourke, a relatively unknown three-term congressman from El Paso, Texas, who resolves to run a true grassroots campaign against incumbent Senator Ted Cruz. His decision to not accept PAC money or rely on consultants and focus on visiting each of Texas’s 254 counties stands as the core of his campaign strategy, marked by genuine connection and engagement.

Beto O'Rourke’s genuine nature and democratic principles turn out to be both the heart and the driving force of his campaign, and that authenticity the magnet drawing people to his rallies. The movie does an excellent job of capturing O’Rourke's tireless journey as he meets with potential voters, listens to their stories, and discusses his vision for a brighter and more inclusive future. Viewers gain a front-row seat to the adrenaline-charged rallies, intimate family moments, public interactions, strategic meetings, triumphs, and setbacks, getting a feel for the energy and momentum that his campaign managed to generate over time.

O’Rourke's wife, Amy O'Rourke, and his campaign manager, Cynthia Cano, are also prominently featured in the film. The documentary paints a vivid picture of the different roles they play in his campaign. Amy, the quiet strength behind O'Rourke, stays with their three young kids, balancing her concerns for her husband's hectic campaign travel schedule. Cano, on the other hand, is the strategic mind guiding the direction of the campaign and ensuring the team stays motivated and inspired, especially during challenging times.

What stands out about Running With Beto is not just the journey of Beto O'Rourke but also the fervor of his supporters. Featuring numerous captivating shots of small-town rallies, crowded venues, and teary-eyed supporters, the movie is as much about them as it is about Beto. Filmmaker David Modigliani offers snippets of volunteers pounding the pavement, making phone calls, and rallies that are put together on a shoestring budget as they become dedicated parts of the broader campaign.

Running With Beto also capitalizes on O'Rourke's charisma and likability. The camcorder-style footage and impromptu moments amplify the authentic nature of the campaign and its star. The movie provides an acute sense of what made O'Rourke a magnetic figure and what he meant to people who were desperately seeking a change.

However, the film is not blind to the harsh realities of a political campaign. It takes a nuanced approach, highlighting the uphill battle of running as a democrat in a traditionally republican state. It captures the stress, exhaustion, and pressure that comes with the territory. The setbacks and disappointments O'Rourke's campaign faced and their effects on his team are visualized in poignant detail, making the experience real and tangible for viewers.

Infused with the suspense of a tight political race, the narrative also unfolds how Beto’s run had ripple effects on the national stage and sparked conversations about the future of politics in America. While the movie focuses largely on the 2018 senatorial race, it also subtly sets the stage for the leader’s burgeoning national profile and his potential influence on future politics.

In essence, Running With Beto is a dramatic and immersive film that offers an up-close and personal glimpse into how politics can be humanized, as it captures the resilience, optimism, and devotion of those striving to make a difference. It's a powerful exploration of a landmark campaign that breaks the norms of traditional politics, highlighting the need for authenticity, grassroots support, and the power of every single vote in effecting change. For those intrigued by politics, this movie serves as an inspiration and a testament to the power of a people-driven campaign in a deeply divisive political climate.