From memoirist to national leader, JD Vance’s journey to becoming the first millennial Vice President of the United States has been deeply influenced by popular culture, especially cinema. His favorite films, a mix of indie classics, gritty dramas, and romantic comedies, not only reflect his personal tastes but also offer a window into the philosophies underpinning his nationalist-populist approach.
In this article, we’ll explore the movies that defined Vance’s worldview and shaped his political identity, from Boyz N the Hood to Forgetting Sarah Marshall.
Boyz N the Hood (1991): A Lesson in Community and Responsibility
John Singleton’s Boyz N the Hood profoundly impacted JD Vance as a child. Though set in South-Central Los Angeles, far from his upbringing in post-industrial Ohio, the themes of fatherhood and community resonated with him. On The Joe Rogan Experience, Vance shared how the father-son relationship in the movie mirrored his longing for paternal guidance during his youth.
Laurence Fishburne’s character teaches his son about responsibility and economic empowerment, emphasizing the importance of local ownership. For Vance, these lessons transcended race and geography, informing his ideas about rebuilding struggling rural communities in America. He attributes some of his earliest thoughts on combating economic decline to the movie, highlighting its universal appeal and relevance.
Pulp Fiction (1994): Faith and Transformation
Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction provided Vance with a metaphorical lens to discuss spirituality. During a Faith & Freedom Coalition Breakfast, he referenced Samuel L. Jackson’s portrayal of a hitman whose life changes after a near-death experience. Jackson’s character feels the divine not through miracles but through an intangible, transformative presence—a sentiment that resonated with Vance’s Catholic faith.
The film’s iconic dialogue about subtle differences in culture also appears in Vance’s foreword to Kevin Roberts’ book. This dual application of Pulp Fiction—as a spiritual touchstone and a cultural commentary—demonstrates how deeply the film informs his perspective on both personal faith and societal differences.
Gangs of New York (2002): Immigration and Assimilation
Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York, set in Civil War-era Manhattan, is another favorite of Vance’s. He cited it during his campaign to illustrate the challenges of mass migration and cultural assimilation. The movie’s depiction of ethnic enclaves and nativist conflicts mirrors concerns Vance has expressed about unchecked immigration in the United States.
While some critics argue that Vance aligns with the film’s antagonist, Bill the Butcher, his focus seems to be on the broader message. The movie’s ending, which showcases the relentless progression of history, serves as a reminder that cultural conflicts eventually evolve into new societal norms.
Garden State (2004): The Search for Belonging
In a deeply personal blog post, Vance reflected on Garden State, a romantic drama about returning home and confronting past wounds. Its themes of belonging and familial ties struck a chord with Vance, especially as someone who has often spoken about the importance of localism and rootedness in American life.
The protagonist’s struggle to reconcile his ambitions with his love for his hometown mirrors Vance’s political narrative. He frequently critiques the globalized economy for uprooting families and eroding community bonds, emphasizing the need for policies that prioritize local stability and cultural heritage.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008): Embracing Vulnerability and Humor
While Vance is known for his serious political commentary, he also has a lighter side. He called Forgetting Sarah Marshall one of his favorite films, citing its humor and emotional relatability. The movie’s exploration of heartbreak and self-discovery resonates with Vance’s introspective nature, highlighting the human side of a leader often seen as a staunch nationalist.
This romantic comedy also reflects Vance’s appreciation for resilience and personal growth—qualities he brings to his role as Vice President. His admiration for the film underscores his ability to find value in stories of vulnerability and transformation, even in unlikely genres.
Emily in Paris (2020–Present): A Modern Guilty Pleasure
In a surprising twist, Vance praised the Netflix series Emily in Paris, calling it a “masterpiece” during a conversation with Joe Rogan. While this lighthearted show seems far removed from the gritty dramas he often cites, it may reflect a shift in his cultural preferences as he balances leadership responsibilities with family life.
Vance’s admiration for Emily in Paris might also signal his appreciation for stories that celebrate cultural exploration and adaptation. The protagonist’s challenges in navigating a new environment could parallel Vance’s own journey from rural Ohio to the national stage.
Cinematic Threads in JD Vance’s Leadership
JD Vance’s favorite films reveal a tapestry of cultural influences, from the gritty realities of urban life in Boyz N the Hood to the romantic escapism of Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Together, these movies shape his vision of an America grappling with economic, social, and cultural challenges.
As Vice President, Vance champions policies rooted in localism, cultural preservation, and economic revival. His cinematic tastes underscore his belief that rebuilding American traditions requires both a clear-eyed understanding of the nation’s flaws and an optimistic faith in its potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How have movies influenced JD Vance’s politics?
Movies have provided Vance with a lens to explore themes of community, responsibility, faith, and cultural identity. His favorite films often address societal challenges and personal growth, which align with his political ideology.
2. What is JD Vance’s favorite movie?
While Vance has mentioned several films, he has particularly praised Boyz N the Hood for its impact on his understanding of fatherhood and community.
3. Why does JD Vance like Pulp Fiction?
Vance appreciates the film’s exploration of faith and transformation, which he has used as metaphors for his own spiritual journey and political ideas.
4. How does Gangs of New York relate to Vance’s views on immigration?
The movie’s depiction of ethnic conflict and the challenges of assimilation resonates with Vance’s stance on prioritizing cultural integration in immigration policy.
5. What does JD Vance think about modern entertainment like Emily in Paris?
Vance has expressed admiration for Emily in Paris, calling it a “masterpiece.” This suggests he values stories of adaptation and exploration, even in lighter genres.
JD Vance’s cinematic favorites provide more than entertainment—they offer a profound insight into the values and vision of one of America’s rising political leaders. Through the lens of these films, we can better understand the philosophy driving his unique brand of conservatism.