Immediately after the film ended, I texted my brother, Ryan. “Just watched The Way I See It for review and wow. Easily one of my favorite films of the year.”

It’s been claimed that Pete Souza created the best photo archive of a President that’s ever been done, and I believe that based solely on the chills I got from watching Dawn Porter’s documentary, The Way I See It. The photographer, who is charmingly referred to as The King of Shade on Instagram for his Trump trolling posts, stayed publicly apolitical throughout his entire career as the Official White House Photographer during the Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama presidencies. Like a fly on the wall, he not only documented some of the most influential and powerful moments in American history but humanized the leaders in these roles. Since the Obama era ended, the abuse towards and damage to journalists and the free press by our current President has been completely disheartening. Having reached his breaking point, Pete is finally speaking out against the atrocity of today’s leadership through his secret weapon: his photos.

Through his lens, Pete shares intimate moments from Reagan and Obama’s terms, the most powerful of which are the small, fleeting moments that have never been seen before. Breathtaking images that are beautiful beyond words portray Obama as more than just the 44th President of the United States, but as your typical dad, husband, and human. The juxtaposition of these personal photos from the Obama era compared to the staged photo-ops of today- since Trump doesn’t allow personal photogs access- is a stark reminder that empathy, humility, and communication are the qualities that make a leader honorable.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway is Pete’s notion about the role of a leader. Not everyone will agree with your policies, but your behavior should always be respected. This goes without saying that Pete’s comments are pointed at one person in particular, but this simple yet common sense reminder applies to everyday situations. A truly remarkable film, The Way I See It is proof that the impact of a still photo can say a lot more than words.

Distributed by Focus Features, ‘The Way I See It’ is in theaters this Friday, September 18th, and premieres on MSNBC October 9th at 7:00 pm.