If you’re in the mood for a thought-provoking comedy that cleverly satirizes politics, look no further than the 1997 film Wag the Dog. This film, starring Robert De Niro and Dustin Hoffman, throws you into a narrative where the President of the United States concocts a phony war to divert attention from a personal scandal. While it’s undoubtedly a work of fiction, the film invites you to question the lengths to which those in power might go. Plus, it’s a delightful way to escape reality, and you can currently stream it for free on YouTube.
You can find the ad-supported version of Wag the Dog here. If you’re looking for an ad-free experience, consider renting it on platforms like Amazon for $3.99 (€3.74) or purchasing it for $10.49 (€9.94), or similar deals on Google Play and Apple.
This film presents a wild premise: De Niro’s character is a political spin doctor who enlists Hoffman’s character, a Hollywood producer, to fabricate a war in Albania to bury a scandal about the President. It’s an outrageous concept that, while purely fictional, resonates with real-world events tied to political maneuvering.
Interestingly enough, Wag the Dog hit theaters just before President Bill Clinton’s own scandal broke in 1998. After Clinton admitted to a relationship with Monica Lewinsky, he authorized bombings in Afghanistan and Sudan, prompting many to draw parallels between his actions and the plot of the film. In fact, Rep. Jim Gibbons even stated in 1998, “Our reaction to the embassy bombings should be based on sound credible evidence, not a knee-jerk reaction to try to direct public attention away from his personal problems.”
Clinton’s Defense Secretary, William Cohen, denied these comparisons, emphasizing that the military actions were solely to protect American citizens from terrorism. It raises a sobering question: would a leader really stoop to that level?
This debate resurfaced during Donald Trump’s presidency when he ordered airstrikes in Syria in April 2017, coinciding with discussions of Russian interference in the 2016 election. An article in Politico provocatively asked, “Is Trump Wagging the Dog in Syria?”
Directed by Barry Levinson and loosely based on Larry Beinhart’s 1993 novel American Hero, the screenplay was crafted by Hilary Henkin and the renowned David Mamet. Though Mamet is known for plays like Glengarry Glen Ross, today’s political climate might have him rethinking just how far a president might go to maintain power.
What is Wag the Dog actually about?
Wag the Dog explores the themes of media manipulation and the lengths to which political figures will go to distract from scandal. It satirizes the relationship between politics and media, showing how easily the public can be swayed by manufactured narratives.
How does the movie relate to real-world events?
Upon its release, Wag the Dog gained notoriety for its eerie similarities to actual political scandals, notably during the Clinton administration, where military action coincided with personal scandals, illustrating heightening political tensions.
Where can I watch Wag the Dog without ads?
You can rent or purchase Wag the Dog on platforms such as Amazon, Google Play, and Apple, all for a small fee that allows for ad-free viewing.
If you’re seeking a laugh while pondering the complexities of contemporary politics, Wag the Dog is a must-see. It keeps you entertained while provoking genuine thought. So grab some popcorn and dive into this classic—stream it or rent it for a fascinating evening. For more engaging content, feel free to explore Moyens I/O.