The Congressman (2016)
A Maine politician's viral scandal sends him on an unlikely journey to a remote island, questioning what it truly means to be an American.
The Congressman - Movie Information
- Original Title: The Congressman
- Release Year: 2016
- Directed by: Jared Martin, Robert Mrazek
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): April 9, 2016 (United States - R)
- Alternative Titles: Catatonk Blues (US)
- Production Countries: United States of America
The Congressman - Plot
Maine Congressman Charlie Winship has had a bad day. After being caught on video failing to stand and recite the pledge of allegiance, he knocks out another House member, confronts his angry ex-wife, and faces denunciation by the media for attacking one of the most cherished patriotic symbols in America. As his life spirals out of control, Charlie embarks on a journey to a remote island in the Atlantic whose eccentric inhabitants are in the middle of a shooting war over their fishing grounds. Treat Williams stars as The Congressman in this humorous and moving film that raises the important question of what it means to be an American.
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The Congressman - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Jared Martin
- Robert Mrazek
Main Cast
- Treat Williams
- Elizabeth Marvel
- Ryan Merriman
- Chris Conroy
- George Hamilton
- Marshall Bell
- Fritz Weaver
- Jayne Atkinson
- Kim Blacklock
- Josh Mostel
Writers
- Robert Mrazek
Producers
- Jared Martin
- Robert Mrazek
- Fred Roos
- Johanna Giebelhaus
The Congressman - FAQs
What is The Congressman about?
The Congressman follows Maine politician Charlie Winship after a viral video catches him refusing to recite the pledge of allegiance. Amid a media firestorm and personal chaos, he escapes to a remote Atlantic island caught in a fishing war, where he rediscovers what it truly means to be an American.
Why does Charlie refuse the pledge of allegiance?
Charlie Winship's refusal to stand for the pledge isn't portrayed as anti-patriotism but as a moment of personal conviction and exhaustion with political performance. The film uses this act as a catalyst to explore authenticity, civic identity, and the gap between political theater and genuine belief.
Where can you stream The Congressman?
You can stream The Congressman on Amazon Prime Video, Tubi TV, The Roku Channel, Hoopla, and Cineverse, among others. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.
Who stars in The Congressman?
Treat Williams leads the film as Congressman Charlie Winship, with a strong supporting cast including Elizabeth Marvel, Ryan Merriman, George Hamilton, Marshall Bell, Fritz Weaver, and Jayne Atkinson rounding out the ensemble.
Is The Congressman based on a true story?
The Congressman isn't based on a specific true story, but it draws on the real political world. Co-director Robert Mrazek, himself a former U.S. Congressman from New York, brought genuine insider experience to the script, lending the film an authentic feel for Washington life and political pressure.
Who directed The Congressman?
The film was co-directed by Jared Martin and Robert Mrazek. Mrazek also wrote the screenplay and served as a producer. His background as a real former U.S. Congressman gives the film an unusually grounded perspective on political life and the pressures facing elected officials.
What is the age rating for The Congressman?
The Congressman is rated R, so it's intended for adult audiences. The rating reflects the film's mature themes around political scandal, personal crisis, and the messy realities of public life rather than graphic content.
How was The Congressman received by critics?
The Congressman earned modest but warm notices, with critics praising Treat Williams' grounded central performance and the film's sincere, low-key charm. Reviewers appreciated its thoughtful take on patriotism and political identity, even if some felt the pacing was unhurried. It's a quiet, character-driven gem.
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