logo
Big brands distance themselves from Pride events amid DEI rollback

Big brands distance themselves from Pride events amid DEI rollback

Washington Post05-05-2025
Marty Zuniga, who helps organize PrideFest in St. Louis — one of the Midwest's biggest LGBTQ+ celebrations — could tell by January that this season would be unlike any he's seen.
That's when Zuniga noticed that corporate contacts weren't answering his emails. In the weeks that followed, longtime partners like Anheuser-Busch declined to sponsor this year's two-day festival while others slashed donations, leaving him with a massive gap in his budget. Meanwhile, he told The Washington Post, several companies willing to commit financially also asked him to keep their names out of it.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

‘Awards Chatter' Pod: Seth Rogen on ‘The Studio' and How It Was Shaped by ‘Freaks and Geeks,' ‘Superbad,' ‘The Green Hornet' and the Sony Hack
‘Awards Chatter' Pod: Seth Rogen on ‘The Studio' and How It Was Shaped by ‘Freaks and Geeks,' ‘Superbad,' ‘The Green Hornet' and the Sony Hack

Yahoo

timea day ago

  • Yahoo

‘Awards Chatter' Pod: Seth Rogen on ‘The Studio' and How It Was Shaped by ‘Freaks and Geeks,' ‘Superbad,' ‘The Green Hornet' and the Sony Hack

'My career is not one steeped with awards attention,' notes Seth Rogen, chuckling in his inimitable way, on the latest episode of The Hollywood Reporter's Awards Chatter podcast. 'I've accepted that, and that's become fine with me. So it is nice and sort of novel that, after working for this long, something new and exciting can happen.' The Canadian actor, writer, producer and director is referring to the TV Academy's tremendous embrace of the The Studio, the Apple TV+ comedy series about a present-day Hollywood studio chief that he co-created, co-wrote, co-directed and stars in. Last month, the show received 23 Emmy nominations — breaking Ted Lasso's record for most noms for a rookie comedy and tying the second season of The Bear's record for most noms for any season of a comedy — including acting, writing, producing and directing noms for Rogen himself. He emphasizes, 'We're very thrilled about it.' More from The Hollywood Reporter How Costumes From Shows Like 'Emily in Paris' and 'Sirens' Illustrate That Fashion, Like Friendships, Is Complementary and Competitive 'American Primeval' DP on the Unplanned Shot He Pulled Off in the Pilot's Violent Massacre Scene 'Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Featured 6,000 VFX Shots Over Eight Episodes Rogen, 43, has been described by The Washington Post as 'a generational comedic voice,' by The Guardian as 'the most successful comic leading man of his generation' and by The New York Times as someone whose 'fingerprints' — along with those of his longtime creative partner, Evan Goldberg — 'have been among the most visible on American film comedy for almost 20 years.' His work for the big screen — which includes 2005's The 40-Year-Old Virgin, 2007's Knocked Up and Superbad, 2008's Pineapple Express, 2013's This Is the End, 2014's The Interview and Neighbors and 2016's Sausage Party — has collectively grossed nearly $10 billion worldwide. And yet it was not until earlier this year, when he returned to the small screen — from which he emerged decades ago on the short-lived cult classic Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000) — that he found widespread critical appreciation. On The Studio, Rogen plays Matt Remick, a longtime Hollywood exec who is named the head of a major studio, a job that he has long dreamed of but that he quickly discovers is not all that it's cracked up to be. The Associated Press has said it 'may be the definitive portrait of contemporary Hollywood,' while the New York Times described it as 'funnier than most anything on TV now.' Over the course of a conversation at the Los Angeles offices of Point Grey Pictures, Rogen and Goldberg's production company, Rogen reflected on he wound up in Hollywood as a teenager, and with Judd Apatow as his mentor; the backstories of the crude but heartfelt and largely improvised film comedies that made him a star; his occasional forays into drama, including in Sarah Polley's Take This Waltz, Danny Boyle's Steve Jobs and Steven Spielberg's The Fabelmans; how some of his most infamous misadventures in Hollywood — such as the flop of his superhero movie The Green Hornet and North Korea's hacking of Sony Pictures in response to his film The Interview — informed The Studio; plus more. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 'The Studio': 30 Famous Faces Who Play (a Version of) Themselves in the Hollywood-Based Series 22 of the Most Shocking Character Deaths in Television History A 'Star Wars' Timeline: All the Movies and TV Shows in the Franchise Solve the daily Crossword

The summer bikinis got smaller
The summer bikinis got smaller

Yahoo

timea day ago

  • Yahoo

The summer bikinis got smaller

The summer bikinis got smaller - - - Correction: Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. A previous version of this article misspelled the surname of Hayley Segar. - - - Did bikini bottoms get smaller this summer? The short answer? Yes. (Get it? 'Short'?) You may have noticed it on swimwear-heavy TV such as 'Bachelor in Paradise' and 'Love Island,' where the cheekies got cheekier and the number of thongs crept up. (Get it? 'Crept up'?) Searches for 'Love Island bikini' on Google spiked in early July. And on beaches and at pools, smaller bottoms have spilled out into the general population. (Get it? 'Spilled out?' I'll stop.) Thongs are, perhaps unsurprisingly, not for everyone. But some swimwear designers report that there are customers who will wear nothing else. When Hayley Segar launched Onewith swimwear in 2021, she offered classic medium-coverage bikini bottoms. After her designs began to circulate on social media, she heard from customers who wanted more teenie-weenie in their bikini. 'The only comment we got was, 'Thongs, thongs, thongs, thongs, where are your thongs?'' Segar said. By 2023, Segar realized that she had to act fast to meet demand. She hastily modified an existing full-coverage bottom and rushed it to the factory. 'I literally told my technical designer 'just chop off the cheeks,'' she said. That design, called the Huntington, has remained one of her best sellers. 'Full coverage is dying,' said Elizabeth Claire Taylor, CEO of the plus size swimwear company Curvy Beach. When she founded the company in 2017, she never planned on offering thongs. Her customers gravitated toward high-waisted bottoms with full posterior coverage. But two years ago, she introduced a cheeky cut. It was a hit. In February, the company debuted its first thong. It sold out. Taylor has many customers who will never even consider wearing a thong. 'When you go from booty-covered to thong, you encounter things like butt acne,' Taylor said. 'You are entering into a vulnerable territory, and I think you're either open to it or you're not.' She's encouraged by the increased demand for a variety of sizes. 'To me, in the current political climate of this country, it is a way of practicing body autonomy,' she said. Isabelle McKay, the founder of the swimwear brand Isabelle Meira, doesn't sell thongs but has noticed a significant uptick in demand for more-revealing higher-waisted cheeky bottoms. 'Five years ago we'd sell probably 70 percent full-coverage,' she said. 'Now I'd say we probably sell 70 percent cheeky.' McKay sees a connection between wider demand for clothes inspired by the '80s and '90s, when higher waists and narrower cuts were in vogue. That could also explain that while bikini bottoms have shrunk, more modest tankini tops are also having a major moment. It may seem counterintuitive, but some women have found that less coverage can be more flattering. 'Higher on the hip, it just makes more of a curve, it makes the legs look a lot longer and slimmer. It's about creating optical illusions rather than covering more,' said McKay. 'Sometimes covering more can almost look less flattering because it's actually just a bigger expanse of fabric.' Segar, who spent eight years selling wedding dresses in Connecticut, agrees. 'I learned that back in bridal,' she said, 'They would say 'I want to be covered.' And they'd end up going with a super strapless skin-baring gown and they're like 'Wait, this is a lot better than I thought.'' Javiera Del Pozo, a model from Los Angeles, has been creating 'haul' videos in which she tries on swimsuits since 2016. For years, she's been wearing her bikini bottoms backward as a work-around. 'The front part will be smaller than the back, so I'll get more coverage in the front and less coverage in the back,' Del Pozo said. But this summer, she's been able to find more suits that fit the way she likes. 'One, I want a good tan,' she said. 'I also want to feel comfortable. If anything, covering up makes me feel less confident.' Heather Short, who earns money posting about plus-size fashion on her thicknstrong33 TikTok channel, agreed. 'For me, I'm just more comfortable when things are cheeky and smaller because I just feel it shows more curves in my body,' she said. 'You always look bigger when you wear bigger clothing, in my opinion.' Sarah Chiwaya, a contributing editor at Refinery29 and a plus-size fashion expert, rejects 'looking smaller' as a goal. But she's happy to see that more revealing bottoms are increasingly available for more consumers. 'I'm really excited to hear that there's actually been a trend of things getting skimpier, because it's a pushback against conservative culture that's been seeping into fashion,' she said. 'There's been a push to dress in a way that is traditionally flattering, which is very much a patriarchal concept about covering up what's improper and impure.' Indeed, online summer discourse has been roaring with arguments about 'trad' femininity and the political implications of cleavage, long hair, 'good jeans' and heavy makeup. In one sense, women deciding to reveal more of their bodies runs counter to conservative notions of modesty. On the other hand, if your concept of 'trad' femininity includes the tradition of courting men's attention, then showing more skin could certainly fit that definition. Depending on where you're sunbathing, skimpy swimsuits are nothing new. There are beaches in Brazil or Miami where thongs have been common for decades. So, how did narrower bottoms turn into a wider trend? Could it be gender parity? According to GQ, this was 'Speedo Summer' for men. Or could there be an economic explanation? Is it simply cheaper for brands to make smaller cuts, in what's known as 'shrinkflation?' Kristin Schwab, senior reporter for public radio's Marketplace explained 'shrinkflation' as a potato chip manufacturer that keeps the same size bag, but puts in fewer chips. 'It appears to be the same volume but you're really getting less product, and that's how they cut costs,' Schwab said. Schwab also said that such considerations could end up affecting fashion trends. 'You could see how a manufacturer is like, 'Let's push this because it is literally less fabric for us to use.' Edgar Dworsky, an economist who has run the watchdog site Consumer World since 1995, doubts that this is happening in the swimwear market. 'Bikini shrinkage is not something that has been on my radar,' Dworsky wrote in an email. 'They are so small to start with, I can't imagine that an inch or two less fabric would make a big difference cost-wise.' Segar said she doesn't save any money with her manufacturer when Onewith sends more revealing designs. 'I can confirm we get charged the same amount,' she said. (Prices for Onewith bikinis range from $49 to $92.) Of course, not everyone is happy with a less-is-more approach to swim bottoms. Destiny Mellow, a health care professional from Bay Springs, Mississippi, posted a now-deleted video with the title 'Confirmed: the cheeky bikini life just isn't for me.' The video stemmed from her frustrations while trying to find a new swimsuit for a beach vacation. 'If I were to try and swim and actually enjoy my vacation in one of those bottoms I would quite literally be flashing everyone at the pool or on the beach,' Mellow wrote in an email. 'I just personally don't feel comfortable with that much of me out in public, especially when I'm with family or in mixed settings.' But the less-skimpy items she found in stores felt dowdy and outdated, so she's sticking with the suits she already had in her closet. 'The whole section that offered what I'd call decent coverage was giving 'water aerobics at 5, bingo at 6.'' Related Content As more National Guard units arrive in D.C., local officials question the need Ukraine scrambles to roll back Russian eastern advance as summit takes place Her dogs kept dying, and she got cancer. Then they tested her water. Solve the daily Crossword

Movies Based Or Filmed in Washington, D.C.
Movies Based Or Filmed in Washington, D.C.

Black America Web

time2 days ago

  • Black America Web

Movies Based Or Filmed in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., has played a starring role in cinema for decades, becoming an iconic backdrop for filmmakers seeking authenticity and drama. The U.S. capital's historical landmarks, political symbolism, and stately architecture make it an unparalleled filming destination. The city's allure began early in Hollywood history, with Frank Capra's Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939). This legendary film showcased real D.C. landmarks, such as the U.S. Capitol, and cemented the city's appeal as a canvas for political storytelling. Over the years, filmmakers returned to D.C.'s storied streets to explore themes of power, justice, and espionage. One of the most renowned locations is the National Mall, frequently featured in everything from Forrest Gump (1994) to Independence Day (1996). The Lincoln Memorial provided a moving setting for Forrest recounting his life's story, while Independence Day captured the dramatic destruction of the White House. Georgetown, with its historic charm, became iconic after The Exorcist (1973), especially the 'Exorcist Steps,' which remain a major tourist attraction. Beyond its scenic value, Washington, D.C., offers filmmakers authenticity unmatched in studio recreations. Frederick Wiseman's The Exorcist and All the President's Men (1976) utilized real neighborhoods, government buildings, and even the Washington Post offices to bring their stories to life. More recently, entries like National Treasure (2004) and Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) breathed new cinematic life into familiar sites like the National Archives and the Smithsonian. For directors, filming in D.C. adds a layer of realism and gravitas that audiences instantly associate with American democracy and power. The city remains an irresistible backdrop, offering not just aesthetic appeal but also a rich connection to history—one that continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. RELATED: Black Movies to Watch for the Fourth of July RELATED: 35 Movies Filmed in Texas Amazing Movies Filmed in Washington, D.C. was originally published on 1. All The President's Men (1976) 'All the President's Men' (1976) is a riveting historical drama that recounts the true story of journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, played by Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman, as they uncover the Watergate scandal. Their relentless investigation for The Washington Post reveals a web of political corruption leading up to the highest offices of the United States government, ultimately resulting in the resignation of President Richard Nixon. The film highlights the power of investigative journalism and the determination required to pursue the truth against immense odds. Filming took place in several key Washington, D.C. locations to evoke authenticity, including the Library of Congress and the streets around The Washington Post. Some interior scenes, such as the newsroom, were meticulously recreated on sound stages to match the actual offices. This combination of on-site and staged filming enhances the film's realistic tone and vividly captures the tension of the era. 2. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' (1939) is a timeless political drama directed by Frank Capra. The story follows Jefferson Smith, an idealistic and naive man, portrayed by James Stewart, who is unexpectedly appointed as a U.S. Senator. Once in Washington, Smith's optimism clashes with the harsh realities of corruption and political manipulation. Determined to fight back, he takes a stand by launching a Senate filibuster, passionately defending democracy and exposing the unethical practices surrounding him. The film captures Smith's transformation from a wide-eyed novice to a determined advocate for justice, becoming a symbol of integrity and moral courage. Though much of the movie was shot on elaborate sets in Hollywood, the production incorporated authentic footage of iconic Washington, D.C. landmarks, such as the U.S. Capitol and other government buildings. These real-world visuals evoke a strong sense of place, enhancing the film's impact and grounding its dramatic storyline in an unmistakably American setting. 3. The Exorcist (1973) 'The Exorcist' (1973) is a landmark horror film directed by William Friedkin. Based on William Peter Blatty's novel, it tells the chilling story of a young girl, Regan MacNeil, who becomes possessed by a demonic entity. Her desperate mother enlists the help of two priests, Father Merrin and Father Karras, to perform a harrowing exorcism. The movie's disturbing visuals, chilling atmosphere, and groundbreaking special effects solidified its place as one of the scariest films of all time. It explores themes of faith, the struggle between good and evil, and the limits of human endurance. Filming prominently took place in Georgetown, a historic neighborhood in Washington, D.C., which adds authenticity to the narrative. Notable locations include the infamous staircase where a climactic scene unfolds, known today as 'The Exorcist Steps.' Some interior scenes were shot on sets in New York, but the D.C. backdrop remains a defining feature of the film's eerie realism. 4. Forrest Gump (1994) 'Forrest Gump' (1994) is a heartwarming drama that chronicles the extraordinary life of its titular character, played by Tom Hanks. Through Forrest's perspective, the film takes viewers on a journey across pivotal moments in 20th-century American history, from the Vietnam War to the civil rights movement. Despite his limited intellectual abilities, Forrest achieves remarkable success in various fields, becomes a war hero, and influences significant cultural milestones—often without fully realizing their importance. His unwavering love for Jenny, his childhood friend, ties the emotional core of the story together. Filming spanned multiple locations across the United States to capture Forrest's incredible adventures. One memorable scene was shot at the Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., where Forrest reunites with Jenny during a Vietnam War rally. Additional iconic sequences were filmed in South Carolina, Utah, and California. The film's blend of humor, emotion, and historical retrospection has left a lasting legacy in cinema. 5. National Treasure (2004) 'National Treasure' (2004) is an action-adventure film starring Nicolas Cage as Benjamin Franklin Gates, a passionate historian and treasure hunter. The movie follows Gates and his team as they search for a hidden treasure rumored to be protected by secret clues left by the Founding Fathers. The hunt becomes a race against a rival treasure seeker, leading to thrilling twists and revelations. Armed with intellect and a deep knowledge of American history, Gates uncovers cryptic puzzles embedded in historical artifacts like the Declaration of Independence. The film blends suspense, ingenuity, and patriotism into an iconic treasure hunt. Key scenes were filmed on location in Washington, D.C., adding authenticity to the historical storyline. Notable landmarks include the National Archives, where the Declaration of Independence is stored, as well as the Lincoln Memorial and other iconic sites. Additional filming took place in 6. A Few Good Men (1992) 'A Few Good Men' (1992) is a gripping courtroom drama directed by Rob Reiner. The film stars Tom Cruise as Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee, a Navy lawyer tasked with defending two Marines accused of murdering a fellow soldier at Guantanamo Bay. Opposing him is Colonel Nathan Jessup, played by Jack Nicholson, whose powerful performance delivers the iconic line, 'You can't handle the truth!' As the case unfolds, Kaffee uncovers a web of conspiracy, strict military codes, and moral dilemmas. The plot explores themes of duty, justice, and honor, showcasing an intense legal battle driven by outstanding performances. Principal filming largely took place in Southern California, including staged courtroom scenes at Warner Bros. Studios. Key outdoor sequences were shot at Point Mugu Naval Air Station and in Washington, D.C., to lend authenticity to the military setting. Additionally, portions of the movie were filmed near Arlington, Virginia, complementing the film's realistic and tense atmosphere. 7. The American President (1995) 'The American President' (1995) is a romantic comedy-drama directed by Rob Reiner. The film stars Michael Douglas as Andrew Shepherd, a widowed President of the United States, who falls in love with Sydney Ellen Wade, an environmental lobbyist played by Annette Bening. This unconventional romance unfolds amid intense political scrutiny and personal vulnerabilities. Shepherd must balance his presidential responsibilities with his feelings for Sydney, facing both public and political challenges. The story explores themes of love, leadership, and moral courage, delivering a blend of heartfelt moments and sharp dialogue. Filming primarily took place in Los Angeles, California, with soundstage recreations of the White House at Warner Bros. Studios providing an impressively authentic backdrop. Additional exterior shots were captured in Washington, D.C., lending realism to the political setting. This attention to detail, along with its witty script and strong performances, makes 'The American President' a standout in its genre. 8. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' (2014) is a thrilling superhero film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. It follows Steve Rogers, played by Chris Evans, as he grapples with modern-day challenges while uncovering a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D. When a shadowy assassin known as the Winter Soldier appears, Steve teams up with Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) and Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) to expose the truth. The film blends intense action sequences with themes of trust, loyalty, and personal values, making it a standout in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Filming took place in various locations around Cleveland, Ohio, which doubled for Washington, D.C., during action-packed sequences like the highway ambush. Actual Washington, D.C., landmarks, including the National Mall, also feature prominently for authenticity. Additional scenes were filmed in Los Angeles and at the Triskelion headquarters staged on Lake Herrick in Georgia. These settings enhance the movie's gripping atmosphere of espionage and intrigue. 9. Wonder Woman 1984 (2020) 'Wonder Woman 1984' (2020) is a superhero film directed by Patty Jenkins, continuing the adventures of Diana Prince, portrayed by Gal Gadot. Set in the vibrant 1980s, Diana faces new challenges when the mysterious Dreamstone grants wishes at a steep cost. The artifact propels Maxwell Lord (Pedro Pascal), an ambitious businessman, into a world of chaos as he exploits its power. Meanwhile, Barbara Minerva (Kristen Wiig) transforms into the formidable Cheetah after her wish for strength goes awry. Diana must confront these threats while grappling with personal sacrifices and the return of her lost love, Steve Trevor (Chris Pine). The movie showcases diverse filming locations to match its grand scale. Notable scenes were shot in Washington, D.C., featuring landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian. Other locations include Virginia, England, and Spain, with the Canary Islands providing the backdrop for Themyscira. The film's bold visuals complement its themes of hope and heroism. 10. The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' (1951) is a classic science fiction film directed by Robert Wise. The story begins when an alien named Klaatu (played by Michael Rennie) and his powerful robot companion, Gort, land their spacecraft in Washington, D.C. Klaatu comes with a warning for Earth's leaders about the consequences of their destructive tendencies. However, his peaceful mission takes a turn when humans react with fear and aggression. Aided by a sympathetic widow, Helen Benson (Patricia Neal), and her son, Klaatu attempts to deliver his urgent message of unity and survival before time runs out. The film is a compelling exploration of Cold War-era anxieties and the need for global cooperation. Filming was primarily conducted in Los Angeles, California. The unforgettable opening scenes at the extraterrestrial ship arriving on Earth were recreated on soundstages at 20th Century Fox Studios. Exterior shots in Washington, D.C., add authenticity to this iconic narrative. 11. Enemy of the State (1998) 'Enemy of the State' (1998) is a fast-paced political thriller directed by Tony Scott. The plot follows Robert Clayton Dean (played by Will Smith), a successful lawyer whose life is upended when he unknowingly comes into possession of evidence tying a high-ranking official to a politically motivated murder. Pursued by a team of shadowy government operatives, Dean seeks help from a former intelligence agent, Brill (Gene Hackman). Together, they unravel a web of surveillance, corruption, and power, highlighting the dangers of unchecked government authority and mass surveillance. The film features action-packed sequences and technological intrigue, underscoring its gripping narrative. Filming took place in several locations, with significant scenes shot in the bustling streets of Baltimore, Maryland, and the heart of Washington, D.C. Additional filming occurred in Los Angeles, California, providing a variety of urban environments. These dynamic settings enhance the movie's sense of urgency and realism. 12. The Pelican Brief (1993) 'The Pelican Brief' (1993) is a gripping legal thriller directed by Alan J. Pakula, based on the bestselling novel by John Grisham. The film stars Julia Roberts as Darby Shaw, a law student who pens a legal brief speculating about the motives behind the assassinations of two Supreme Court justices. Her document, dubbed the 'Pelican Brief,' exposes a dangerous conspiracy involving powerful interests. Aided by investigative journalist Gray Grantham (Denzel Washington), Darby must evade relentless assassins while uncovering the shocking truth. The film masterfully combines suspense, intrigue, and heart-pounding action, highlighting themes of corruption and justice. Filming primarily took place in New Orleans, La., beautifully showcasing its French Quarter architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Additional key scenes were filmed in Washington, D.C., particularly utilizing landmarks such as the Library of Congress and the U.S. Supreme Court building for authenticity. This dual setting adds both charm and tension to the movie's dramatic storyline. 13. Burn After Reading (2008) 'Burn After Reading' (2008) is a dark comedy written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. The film follows two inept gym employees, Linda Litzke (Frances McDormand) and Chad Feldheimer (Brad Pitt), who stumble upon a disc containing what they believe to be top-secret government information. Eager to monetize their find, they become entangled in a chaotic web of espionage, blackmail, and absurd miscommunication involving a disgruntled CIA analyst, Osborne Cox (John Malkovich), and his unfaithful wife, Katie (Tilda Swinton). The movie satirizes human folly, deception, and greed with biting humor and unpredictable twists. The film was primarily shot in multiple locations around the Washington, D.C., area, capturing the atmosphere of political intrigue. Notable scenes were filmed in Georgetown and Adams Morgan, alongside neighboring Virginia suburbs. Additional scenes were shot in Brooklyn, New York, contributing to the gritty aesthetic that complements the movie's chaotic narrative. 14. State of Play (2009) 'State of Play' (2009) is a gripping political thriller directed by Kevin Macdonald. The film stars Russell Crowe as Cal McAffrey, a seasoned journalist investigating the mysterious death of a congressman's aide. Ben Affleck plays Congressman Stephen Collins, whose career and personal life come under intense scrutiny as the investigation unfolds. With the help of rookie journalist Della Frye, portrayed by Rachel McAdams, McAffrey uncovers a tangled web of conspiracy, corruption, and corporate greed tied to a defense contractor. The film skillfully balances robust performances with suspenseful storytelling, exploring themes of ethics in journalism and power dynamics. Filmed on location in Washington, D.C., the movie authentically captures the political tension of the U.S. capital. Iconic landmarks like the U.S. Capitol and the Georgetown neighborhood provide a realistic backdrop for the unfolding intrigue. Additional scenes were shot in Los Angeles, California, effectively blending the cinematic recreation with real-world settings to enhance its sense of authenticity. 15. FK (1991) Oliver Stone's 'JFK' (1991) examines the investigation of President John F. Kennedy's assassination through the relentless efforts of New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison, played by Kevin Costner. Garrison uncovers layers of conspiracy, questioning the official narrative surrounding Lee Harvey Oswald. The film explores themes of political intrigue, justice, and the quest for truth, blending riveting drama with historical reconstruction. 'JFK' was filmed extensively in New Orleans to replicate the locations central to Garrison's investigation. Dallas served as another key filming site, including Dealey Plaza, the actual location of Kennedy's assassination. Additional scenes were shot in Washington, D.C., adding authenticity to its political narrative. 16. Advise & Consent (1962) 'Advise & Consent' (1962) is a gripping political drama directed by Otto Preminger, based on the novel by Allen Drury. The film portrays the power struggles and ethical dilemmas in Washington, D.C., as the Senate evaluates the controversial nomination of Robert Leffingwell (Henry Fonda) for Secretary of State. Filled with suspense, the story weaves through backroom negotiations, political scandals, and personal sacrifices, exposing the complexities of governance. Key scenes were filmed on location in Washington, D.C., including the U.S. Capitol and surrounding landmarks for authentic depictions of political settings. Additional interior shots recreated Senate chambers, adding to the movie's immersive realism. 17. No Way Out (1987) 'No Way Out' (1987) is a tense political thriller directed by Roger Donaldson. The film stars Kevin Costner as Tom Farrell, a Naval officer who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation tied to a powerful Secretary of Defense (Gene Hackman). As Farrell uncovers hidden truths, he finds himself racing against time to prove his innocence while navigating a web of political conspiracy and deceit. Key scenes were filmed on location in Washington, D.C., including the U.S. Capitol and Georgetown neighborhood, adding authenticity to the film's political intrigue. Additional scenes were shot at the Jefferson Memorial and the corridors of Arlington Memorial Bridge. 18. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) 'X-Men: Days of Future Past' (2014), directed by Bryan Singer, blends time travel with superhero action as the X-Men fight to prevent a dystopian future. Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) is sent to 1973 to alter history and stop the creation of the Sentinels—robotic enforcers designed to exterminate mutants. The film showcases the collaboration between the original X-Men and their younger counterparts, navigating themes of redemption and unity. Filming took place across various locations, including Montreal, Canada, which stood in for Washington, D.C., and Paris. Notable scenes, like Magneto's dramatic display at the Pentagon, recreated the iconic site with detailed set designs.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store