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The War on Democracy

The War on Democracy

Representation Score

6.0/10

Fair

2007

R

Director

Chris Martin, John Pilger, Sean Crotty

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The War on Democracy effectively challenges Western-centric historical myths by centering the testimonies of the Global South. However, its focus on macro-level geopolitics and state actors limits representation of individual identities. It lacks LGBTQ+ characters and discussions of non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities, and does not address gendered power dynamics or disability ability to act. The film's strength lies in its systemic critique of Western hegemony and capitalist structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does The War on Democracy have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses on geopolitical shifts and intelligence operations. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or discussions of non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.

How does The War on Democracy portray gender?

Fair

The narrative centers on state actors and political leaders, emphasizing male-centric power dynamics. It does not explore gendered power dynamics or challenge traditional masculinity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The War on Democracy?

Excellent

The film highlights voices and experiences from Latin America and the Middle East. It disrupts Anglo-centric historical perspectives by focusing on those affected by Western intervention.

How does The War on Democracy represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative critiques Western institutions and US foreign policy through a post-colonial lens. It prioritizes the sovereignty of impacted regions over Western-led global orders.

Does The War on Democracy include disability representation?

Fair

The film does not focus on disability as a primary narrative driver. Physical trauma from political violence is shown as a consequence of conflict, not through individual disability experiences.

Present on Screen

  • Highlights voices and experiences from the Global South and non-Western regions.
  • Disrupts Anglo-centric historical narratives through diverse testimonies.
  • Critiques Western hegemony and imperialist structures using a post-colonial lens.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks LGBTQ+ characters and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.
  • Overlooks gendered power dynamics and traditional masculinity.
  • Does not address disability or neurodivergent representation.

Official Synopsis

Set both in Latin America and the United States, the film explores the historic and current relationship of Washington with countries such as Venezuela, Bolivia and Chile. Pilger says that the film "...tells a universal story... analysing and revealing, through vivid testimony, the story of great power behind its venerable myths. It allows us to understand the true nature of the so-called "war on terror". According to Pilger, the film’s message is that the greed and power of empire is not invincible and that people power is always the "seed beneath the snow".

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