The Great Man Votes! - A Timeless Story About Political Intrigue, Family Drama, and 1938 America

Journey back in time to 1938 with “The Great Man Votes!”, a forgotten gem of early television that offers a fascinating glimpse into the political and social landscape of its era. This captivating series, which sadly only ran for a single season due to budgetary constraints, focuses on the life of Theodore Billings, a fictional, charismatic politician navigating the tumultuous world of American politics while grappling with the complexities of family life.
Theodore Billings, portrayed with nuanced brilliance by stage veteran Reginald Stanhope, is not your typical political figure. He’s a man of principle and integrity, often struggling to reconcile his idealistic visions with the harsh realities of political maneuvering. His wife, Eleanor, played by the elegant Helen Hayes in a performance that solidified her status as a television icon, provides a grounding force, offering unwavering support while challenging Theodore’s sometimes naive approach.
The series unfolded over 26 episodes, each delving into specific challenges faced by Billings and his family. Episodes tackled issues ranging from campaign finance reform and labor disputes to the burgeoning social movements of the time, like women’s suffrage and civil rights. While rooted in political themes, “The Great Man Votes!” excelled at portraying the intimate dynamics within the Billings household.
Viewers witnessed Theodore and Eleanor grappling with raising their children amidst the pressures of public life. Their eldest son, David, played by a young Orson Welles in one of his earliest television appearances, wrestled with forging his own identity while navigating the shadow cast by his famous father. The family dynamic added an endearing touch to the series, reminding audiences that even powerful political figures are ultimately human beings facing relatable challenges.
One episode that particularly stands out is titled “The Whistleblower,” which tackles the sensitive issue of corruption within Theodore’s own political party. Faced with a difficult decision, he must choose between loyalty to his party and upholding his personal ethics. This episode brilliantly showcases Stanhope’s acting prowess as Theodore grapples with moral dilemmas, ultimately choosing to expose the wrongdoing despite potential repercussions for his career.
Beyond its compelling storylines and captivating characters, “The Great Man Votes!” is noteworthy for its pioneering use of television technology. The series employed innovative camera angles and lighting techniques that pushed the boundaries of early broadcasting.
Episode | Title | Theme |
---|---|---|
1 | A New Beginning | Theodore enters the political arena |
5 | The Whistleblower | Corruption within the political party |
12 | Labor Unrest | Dealing with labor disputes |
18 | Family Matters | Balancing family and political life |
26 | A Legacy Forged | Reflections on Theodore’s career |
A table summarizing some of the key episodes of “The Great Man Votes!” highlights its exploration of diverse themes, making it a thought-provoking watch even today.
While sadly forgotten by mainstream audiences, “The Great Man Votes!” stands as a testament to the power and potential of early television. It offered viewers not only an escape into a world of political intrigue and family drama but also sparked important conversations about social issues that continue to resonate in our contemporary world. Rediscovering this hidden gem allows us to appreciate the evolution of television storytelling while gaining valuable insights into the historical context of 1938 America.
For anyone interested in exploring the origins of television drama, “The Great Man Votes!” is a captivating journey worth taking. It reminds us that even amidst the flickering black and white images, powerful stories were being told, shaping the landscape of entertainment for generations to come.