Pentagon and CIA shaped thousands of Hollywood movies into effective propaganda (worldbeyondwar.org)

Article summary

The Pentagon and CIA have had a significant influence on thousands of Hollywood movies and TV shows, shaping their content to promote a positive image of the US military and its actions. This influence can be seen in the way movies and TV shows portray the military, often depicting it as heroic and just, while downplaying or omitting its negative aspects. The article suggests that this propaganda is most effective when it is subtle and not perceived as such by the audience. The influence of the Pentagon and CIA on Hollywood is not limited to movies and TV shows, but also extends to other forms of media, such as video games and music.

Main themes

• Pentagon and CIA influence on Hollywood
• propaganda in entertainment
• military recruitment and public opinion
• US democracy and republicanism
• global propaganda and influence
• entertainment as a tool for social control

What commenters say

• Some countries, like China and Russia, also produce propaganda through their entertainment industries, often with more overt messaging.
• The US military's influence on Hollywood is particularly effective because it is often subtle and not perceived as propaganda by the audience.
• The portrayal of the military in movies and TV shows can have a significant impact on public opinion and recruitment, with some arguing that it glorifies war and militarism.
• Others argue that some movies, such as Apocalypse Now and Full Metal Jacket, are anti-war and critique the military, but may still be seen as promoting a positive image of the US military.
• The influence of the Pentagon and CIA on Hollywood is not limited to movies and TV shows, but also extends to other forms of media, such as video games and music, which can be used to promote a positive image of the military.
• Some commenters argue that the US is not a democracy, but rather a republic, and that this distinction is important when considering the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion.
• The use of propaganda in entertainment is not unique to the US, but is a common practice in many countries, including China and Russia, where it is often used to promote a positive image of the government and its actions.