The Final Year (HBO)

About The Final Year (HBO)

The Final Year is a unique insider's account of President Barack Obama's foreign policy team during their last year in office. This introspective documentary was released in 2018 on the HBO platform. The filmmakers follow key members of Obama’s cabinet—Secretary of State John Kerry, UN Ambassador Samantha Power, Deputy National Security advisor Ben Rhodes, and National Security Advisor Susan Rice—as they attempt to reinforce the world’s perception of America as a constructive global force, while managing a series of increasingly chaotic global crises.

Making / Production

The Final Year, directed by Greg Barker, was produced by John Battsek, Diane Becker, Alice Bristow, Christopher Buchanan, George Chignell, and others. It is a Magnolia Pictures and Passion Pictures production. The documentary provides an unprecedented insider's view at the functioning of a presidential administration. Filming took place throughout 2016, traveling with the team to 21 countries across the globe.

Actors (Featuring)

• John Kerry: As the Secretary of State, he plays himself. He is followed throughout the movie dealing with crises and diplomatic negotiations.
• Samantha Power: The U.S. Ambassador to the UN, she also plays herself. Power provides a personal perspective on the intensity and stakes involved with diplomatic work.
• Ben Rhodes: As Deputy National Security Advisor, he's seen crafting major policy speeches and navigating diplomatic assignments.
• Susan Rice: The National Security Advisor who plays herself is often seen debating and discussing matters of policy.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film ends with the news of President Trump's election, throwing the efforts of the team into uncertain light.
• Director Greg Barker has referred to the documentary as a "real-life version of The West Wing."

Quotes

• “I'm still a firm believer that the arc of history is long but bends towards justice.” - John Kerry
• "We don't have a plan for a Donald Trump presidency" - Samantha Power

Music, Soundtrack

• The captivating score was composed by Philip Sheppard, creating an intense and poignant soundtrack that underscores the theme of the documentary.

Note: As per data available, there are no recorded awards specifically for The Final Year (HBO).