Torture Made in USA 2010
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Galexie Presse – CFRT in association with ARTE France
Directed by Marie-Monique Robin
DVD, color, 85 min.
Sr. High - General Adult
War Crimes, Politics, Terrorism, Iraq
Date Entered: 05/04/2015
Reviewed by Malcolm L. Rigsby, Department of Sociology and Human Services, Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, ArkansasA stunning and gripping presentation of how politics, media and a “dark other” are used to spin a demoniacal foe—a foe in which no terms of war require a morality. It is in this depiction of the unsavory “other” and our post-911 era that we examine how the power of government in the US has changed our basic understanding of moral behavior during times of war.
Through interviews, news clips and behind the scene moments the film director Marie-Monique Robin takes you on a methodical tour of the federal government’s use of torture in responding to the Bush Administrations call for a War on Terror. We see the use of both hegemonic power and raw brute force employed in a most authoritative way. Meanwhile the American public, mystified by media tactics and subversion came to embrace America’s endeavor to end terror as part of a patriot mission. Under thick covers our government became a demonic monster in its own right.
Viewers will travel and explore events including the infamous Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo prisons. The film paints a portrait in which media and hidden agendas assisted our governmental power brokers to paint a patently pristine depiction of America, while in reality immoral tactics were employed that has destroyed our reputation in the world as a champion of democracy and freedom.
Well shot, excellent sound and editing. Watch the Bullfrog Film trailer curtesy of Vimeo.
Awards
- Special Jury Prize, The Festival Des Libertes, International Human Rights Film Festival, Belgium
- Olivier Quemener RSF Prize The Figra Le Touquet, France