When asked about his favorite films, Mr. Cain said, " 'The Godfather,' " with a wink and a grin, referencing not only Francis Ford Coppola's revered 1971 mob drama, but also his own tenure as the CEO of Godfather's Pizza. His own meteoric rise likely will be bloodless in comparison with that of Michael Corleone's.

"Probably 'Casablanca,' " says former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, naming the 1942 classic about love and sacrifice during World War II. Considering Mr. Gingrich's interest in history, in which he holds a doctorate, his pick is hardly surprising. But does he see more of himself in heroic resistance leader Victor Laszlo or outwardly disillusioned expat Rick Blaine, who is really a romantic at heart.

" 'Braveheart,' " Rep. Michele Bachmann declared, adding after a thoughtful pause, "or maybe 'Saving Private Ryan.' " Both are respectable choices, two lengthy, incredibly gory historical war epics. Seeing as both films feature heroes who fall in defense of freedom, she might hope that her own campaign has better results.