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 has been a persistent phenomenon across various political regimes and conflicts, with notable peaks during wartime and periods of ideological struggle. For example, during World War II, both Allied and Axis powers produced hundreds of propaganda films to influence public opinion and morale. In recent decades, state-sponsored film propaganda has been documented in countries such as North Korea, Russia, and China, where governments continue to invest heavily in cinematic productions to shape narratives and reinforce political agendas.
A concrete example occurred in 2012 in North Korea with the release of "The Great Leader and the People," a film glorifying Kim Jong-un’s leadership. The film was widely distributed domestically and used in state-run cinemas and schools to reinforce loyalty to the regime and its ideology.

Claim

Film propaganda is a critical issue that shapes public perception and influences societal values. By distorting reality and promoting biased narratives, it undermines informed decision-making and fosters division. The power of cinema to sway emotions can be weaponized, leading to manipulation and misinformation. As audiences, we must remain vigilant and critically assess the media we consume, recognizing that film can be a tool for both enlightenment and deception. Addressing this problem is essential for a healthy democracy.

Counter-claim

Film propaganda is often overstated as a significant issue. While it can influence opinions, the impact of films is minimal compared to the vast array of information available today. Audiences are increasingly discerning, capable of critical thinking and analysis. In a world saturated with diverse media, the notion that films can single-handedly sway public perception is exaggerated. People are not easily manipulated; they seek out truth and context beyond the silver screen.