#140RVW
One of those times where a film vastly surpasses the source novel, Levinson’s low-key black comedy recalls dark humor of Dr. Strangelove…
What’s more:
Not everyone likes black comedies. Sometimes they hit too close to home or offend a person’s sense of humor. Or sometimes the concept is just a little too realistic to truly be funny.
Wag the Dog could possibly be viewed in that latter category. While the movie is alternately dryly humorous and outlandishly funny, the premise is disturbingly believable: fictional war is created to divert attention from scandal.
Not the only time that a film has dealt with similar issues, but possibly the most realistic and credible example of spin doctoring on such a large scale. The book on which the film is based, “American Hero” by Larry Beinhart, is kind of a snore. Amazing concept, but all hat and no cattle. Hilary Henkin & David Mamet’s adaptation (depending on who you believe was responsible) is sublime.
The acting is predictably fabulous, making the most out of the bitingly sharp dialogue. The number of cameos is wonderful, not only because you get to see so many of these great actors, but because they flesh out some really well written characters. “The Fad King is my hero.”
Poster:
Trailer:
Bechdel Test:
Pass
| Main Cast | Dustin Hoffman Stanley Motss, Robert De Niro Conrad Brean, Anne Heche Winifred Ames, Denis Leary Fad King |
| Rating | R |
| Release Date | Fri 09 Jan 1998 UTC |
| Director | Barry Levinson |
| Genres | Comedy, Drama |
| Plot | Shortly before an election, a spin-doctor and a Hollywood producer join efforts to fabricate a war in order to cover up a presidential sex scandal. |
| Poster |  |
| Runtime | 97 |
| Tagline | A Hollywood producer. A Washington spin-doctor. When they get together, they can make you believe anything. |
| Writers | Larry Beinhart (book), Hilary Henkin (screenplay) … |
| Year | 1997 |