A newspaper reporter discovers a small-town politician, Willie Stark, who is surprisingly honest and brave, despite being a self-taught individual. Despite losing an initial election, Stark pursues a law degree and becomes a determined attorney fighting for what's right. He later becomes a governor's pawn, running against a rival to split the vote, but proves to be a formidable opponent, willing to make tough choices to achieve his goals.

All the King's Men
The gradual ascent of a charismatic leader to power is accompanied by a transformation from kind-heartedness to unyielding ambition, as he leverages his charm to manipulate and subjugate those surrounding him.