Pat Paulsen for President Poster

Pat Paulsen for President 1968

★ 4.01 votes51 min📅 1968-10-20

"Sure, why not?"

Step into the whimsical world of 1968 with *Pat Paulsen for President (1968)*, a trailblazing comedy that blurred the lines between satire and documentary long before the term "mockumentary" entered the lexicon.

Director: Bob Collins

Cast

Pat Paulsen
Pat Paulsen
Pat Paulsen, Presidential Candidate
Dick Smothers
Dick Smothers
Himself
Tom Smothers
Tom Smothers
Himself
Henry Fonda
Henry Fonda
Narrator (voice)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pat Paulsen for President (1968) about?

This 1968 comedy-doc hybrid follows comedian Pat Paulsen's surreal campaign for the U.S. presidency, blending satire with the documentary style of the era. The film pokes fun at the political process while showcasing Paulsen's unique brand of understated humor, all wrapped in the chaotic energy of late-'60s America.

Who directed Pat Paulsen for President?

The film was directed by Bob Collins, a television personality known for his work in comedy and variety shows during the 1960s.

Who stars in Pat Paulsen for President?

The film features Pat Paulsen alongside Dick Smothers and Tom Smothers of the Smothers Brothers, with a special appearance by Henry Fonda.

Is Pat Paulsen for President (1968) worth watching?

For fans of political satire and vintage comedy, *Pat Paulsen for President* is a must-see. While it may not have the polish of modern mockumentaries, its raw, experimental charm and historical significance make it an intriguing watch. The film's short runtime and sharp wit ensure it leaves a lasting impression.

How long is Pat Paulsen for President?

The runtime for *Pat Paulsen for President* is 51 minutes.

About Pat Paulsen for President (1968) — The Satirical Comedy That Redefined Political Parody

Step into the whimsical world of 1968 with *Pat Paulsen for President (1968)*, a trailblazing comedy that blurred the lines between satire and documentary long before the term "mockumentary" entered the lexicon. Directed by Bob Collins, this 51-minute TV movie follows the absurd yet oddly endearing campaign of comedy legend Pat Paulsen, whose run for the White House was a masterclass in political parody. The film captures the chaotic spirit of the era, blending deadpan humor with sharp social commentary as Paulsen delivers his trademark wisecracks to an unsuspecting electorate. With the Smothers Brothers lending their comedic muscle and a cameo from Henry Fonda adding gravitas, *Pat Paulsen for President (1968)* is a time capsule of late-'60s absurdity, where the line between politics and performance blurs into something delightfully subversive.

Satirical in its heart and experimental in its approach, this short but memorable film offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a comedian-turned-presidential-hopeful. Shot in the grainy, fly-on-the-wall style of a real documentary, it tricks the audience into taking Paulsen's campaign seriously—only to undercut the premise with his trademark deadpan delivery. Whether you're a fan of political satire, a student of comedy history, or just curious about the quirks of 1960s America, *Pat Paulsen for President (1968)* delivers a uniquely entertaining experience that feels as fresh today as it must have felt in 1968.