Primary Colors (1998): cast, story & where to watch
1998 · Film · ★ 6.3
Released in 1998, Primary Colors is a drama film directed by Mike Nichols, running about 143 minutes. “What went down on the way to the top.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. In this adaptation of the best-selling roman à clef about Bill Clinton's 1992 run for the White House, the young and gifted Henry Burton is tapped to oversee the presidential campaign of Governor Jack Stanton. Burton is pulled into the politician's colorful world and looks on as Stanton -- who has a wandering eye that could be his downfall -- contends with his ambitious wife, Susan, and an outspoken adviser, Richard Jemmons.
Who’s in it. Primary Colors stars John Travolta as Jack Stanton, Emma Thompson as Susan Stanton, Billy Bob Thornton as Richard Jemmons and Kathy Bates as Libby Holden, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.3/10, Primary Colors has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response. It went on to earn $52.1M at the box office.
Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Primary Colors page.
If you liked it. Fans of Primary Colors tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Primary Colors (1998)?
- In US, Primary Colors is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Primary Colors worth watching?
- Primary Colors holds an audience score of 6.3 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Primary Colors?
- Primary Colors stars John Travolta, Emma Thompson, Billy Bob Thornton, Kathy Bates and Adrian Lester.
- When was Primary Colors released?
- Primary Colors was released in 1998, with a runtime of about 143 minutes.