Win, Lose or Draw Straws

Win, Lose or Draw Straws is a fascinating documentary that unfolds like a high-stakes political thriller. The 2020 film is directed by Casey Beck and features Stephanie Bounds, Bo Eaton, and Jim Glenn as it takes viewers on a wild journey into the heart of American democracy. This engaging and dramatic documentary reveals a remarkable but lesser-known aspect of the American electoral system.

The film’s premise centers on rare instances where political races, too close to call, are decided by a random game of chance. Focusing on two main stories, a coin toss and drawing of straws, this documentary intertwines these rare and largely forgotten practices with the larger topics of voting rights, electoral reform, and the broader state of US democracy.

Win, Lose or Draw Straws provides extensive footage and interviews with main characters Stephanie Bounds, Bo Eaton, and Jim Glenn, along with legal experts, candidates, and their supporters. Stephanie Bounds is the ambitious Student Government Association president of the University of Southern Mississippi, she embodies the eager and hopeful spirit of a youthful political aspirant. Bo Eaton, a lively Mississippi State Representative who finds himself in an electoral tie forcing him to draw straws for his political survival, becomes the heart of the narrative. Jim Glenn, a seasoned Kentucky State Representative, who after winning his election by a single vote encounter claims of election fraud, further complicating his victory, offers an intellectual perspective to the narrative.

Stephanie, Bo, and Jim's stories provide an intriguing look at the often unpredictable world of American politics. The way the results are decided when elections end in a tie might sound almost comical, but the documentary reveals the weighty reality and consequences that these random games of chance actually hold.

The film is not an account of disconnected events but rather a thought-provoking and at times almost satirical take on the American electoral system. Through the journey of these political characters, viewers see the importance of every vote in an election and are reminded that it often takes just one person to swing the final result.

One of the most engaging aspects of Win, Lose or Draw Straws is its exploration of the idiosyncrasies of the American electoral system. While the broader system is generally known, the documentary illuminates the more obscure corners and exposes viewers to laws that many are unaware of.

Through the lens of these peculiar tiebreaking methods, the film delves into America's contentious history of electoral rights. It explores the many obstacles put in the path of American citizens, particularly minority communities, from voter ID laws to the erosion of the Voting Rights Act.

Each storyline in the film is layered and complex, offering something new to learn. This documentary carefully navigates the twists and turns of the plot with the help of captivating graphics and dynamic cinematography. The vibrant narrative of Win, Lose or Draw Straws is further accentuated by the skilfully composed sountrack

The film also cogently reminds us of the struggles that some have had to win the right to vote, and the fragility of a democratic system where every single vote counts. If anything, the film underscores the urgency for its viewers to participate in the electoral process.

Win, Lose or Draw Straws does not overtly bias towards any political party. Instead, it analyzes and muses over the process of democracy itself, creating an engaging dialogue around the true concept of representative government are presented.

Rather than providing blanket solutions or concrete answers, Win, Lose or Draw Straws illuminates some of the issues American electoral system are facing and ignites conversations on how they can potentially be addressed. It’s a must-watch for anyone intrigued by American politics, the concept of democracy, or simply those in search for a truly unique story.

In an election impacted by a coin toss or a draw of a straw, it’s an outrageous perspective of democracy gone awry. It’s our fatalistic acceptance of the outrageous combined with our complacency in the political process that makes Win, Lose or Draw Straws a fitfully entertaining and impactful experience.