Hollywood, D.C: A Tale of Two Cities 2000
Distributed by Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th Street., New York, NY 10016; 212-808-4980
Produced by The Fremantle Corporation in Association with Bravo
Directed by Kenneth Bowser
VHS, color, 56 min.
High School - Adult
Political Science, Communication
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Hope Marie Cook, Curriculum Center, Eastern Connecticut State UniversityHollywood, D.C: A Tale of Two Cities is an exploration of the creation of and the continuing intimate relationship between the media, Hollywood and politics, and how this resultant relationship has structured the direction and culture of politicians. Several movie directors and media journalists casually discuss and evaluate the close ties and influence demonstrated by Hollywood actors and the roles that these actors have played by influencing and shaping the moral leadership of politicians through means of opinion, prestige, power, and finances.
The producer makes a connection through a series of events by intermingling historical news footage with Hollywood movie clips and provides a better understanding concerning the media and the “marketing” of “our” politicians. How they rise to power, or fall from such, is carefully calculated, orchestrated, and controlled by the manipulation of the politicians’ images, spin of words, and the emotions’ and reactions’ of the public to the rhetoric. The commentary from well-established actors, journalists, and political analysts add to the believability of the phenomenon called the Hollywood-D.C. connection.
This video is recommended for high school and college libraries. Political science majors or advertising/marketing programs might find this reference useful as an introductory glimpse into the magical powers of the media.