Grassroots (2012)

Grassroots is a 2012 political-comedy film directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal starring Jason Biggs as Phil Campbell, Joel David Moore as Grant Cogswell, Lauren Ambrose as Emily Bowen, Cobie Smulders as Clair, Tom Arnold as Tommy and Emily Bergl as Theresa Glendon. The film is based on the book Zioncheck for President by Phil Campbell.

Shot in Seattle, the film revolves around a grassroots campaign for Seattle City Council and explores what happens when a dedicated activist tries to realize a vision by seeking political office.

Plot: The film tells the story of Phil Campbell (Jason Biggs), a journalist who has just lost his job and gets roped into leading Grant Cogswell's political campaign. Grant, played by Joel David Moore, is Phil's enthusiastic friend whose passion for the monorail inspires him to run for Seattle City Council. Grant is running against Richard McIver, played by Cedric the Entertainer, and although McIver has more money and more supporters, Grant's blind passion paired with Phil's strategy makes Grant a contender.