Film propaganda

Cinema propaganda
Video propaganda

Nature

The use of films to influence public opinion, nationally or internationally, in favour of a political ideal or government policies. They may include the use of art, television and photographic propaganda, war, racist or religious propaganda, or official and government information, which may be misleading, inaccurate, utopian or moralistic. Film propaganda may sharpen political and international conflict or strengthen government control and dictatorship or lead to apathy, conformism, idealism, hero worship, ignorance, prejudice and alienation. Government industries or commercial production companies may consciously intend to either strengthen national or group solidarity or change or subvert opinion in a hostile or neutral group. These aims are at their strongest in times of war. In combatant countries every effort is made to denigrate the enemy.

Background

Propaganda film came of age during the First World War. Every major power commissioned official films and most ended the war with some kind of government department responsible for co-ordinating film propaganda.

Incidence

Film propaganda remains a pervasive global phenomenon, with governments, political groups, and corporations utilizing cinema to shape public opinion, reinforce ideologies, and influence social behavior. Its reach extends across continents, affecting both democratic and authoritarian societies. The proliferation of digital platforms has further amplified the scale and speed at which propagandistic films can be disseminated, making it increasingly challenging to distinguish between objective storytelling and manipulative messaging.
In 2022, Russia released the film "The Witness" to promote its narrative regarding the invasion of Ukraine. Screened domestically and in select international venues, the film was widely criticized for distorting facts and serving as a tool of state propaganda.

Claim

Film propaganda is a deeply troubling issue that manipulates public opinion and distorts reality on a massive scale. By disguising biased messages as entertainment, it undermines critical thinking and spreads misinformation. This insidious practice threatens democracy, fuels division, and erodes trust in media. We must recognize film propaganda as a serious problem and demand transparency and accountability in the stories that shape our beliefs and values. Ignoring it endangers our society’s integrity.

Counter-claim

Film propaganda is not an important problem at all. In today’s world, audiences are more media-savvy than ever and can easily distinguish between fiction, opinion, and fact. With countless sources of information available, no single film can significantly sway public opinion. Worrying about film propaganda is outdated; people have the critical thinking skills to make up their own minds without being unduly influenced by movies.