Lecture Notes on "Vice" Movie Review

Introduction

• The episode is sponsored by Curiosity Stream, a documentary streaming service.

Initial Impressions

• Reviewer (Safer) expected the movie "Vice" to be bad, and labeled it as the worst film of 2018 at the time.
• Criticism of the film centers around its portrayal of Dick Cheney.
• Reviewer stresses the importance of honesty, regardless of the subject.

Myths About Dick Cheney

• Cheney is often depicted as the power behind George Bush, which is a misconception.
• Cheney's role was more akin to a chief bureaucrat rather than a secret manipulator.
• The film inaccurately blames Cheney as the sole reason for the Iraq War.

Iraq War and Misconceptions

• Public opinion on the Iraq War driven by intelligence that Cheney elevated.
• There were public doubts about WMDs, ignored by the film.
• Cheney's involvement in torture and NSA surveillance is highlighted.

Cheney's Influence

• Cheney's influence in decision-making processes in the White House.
• Torture memos carry Cheney's influence.
• Misconceptions about Cheney’s sole responsibility for certain government actions.

Sources and Representation

• Films and books about Cheney, including "Angler," his Secret Service name.
• The film "Vice" is criticized for inaccuracies and selective representation.

Critiques of "Vice"

• The film perpetuates myths and inaccuracies about Cheney's role.
• Fact-checkers and journalists have criticized the film for its misrepresentations.
• The movie is seen as pandering to certain political perspectives.

Accuracy vs. Inaccuracy

• The film accurately portrays some aspects of Cheney's life, such as his alcoholism and family issues.
• Some policy explanations, like estate tax rebranding, are well-handled.
• Many inaccuracies remain, suggesting bias in representation.

Key Inaccuracies and Criticisms

• Misinterpretations of Scalia and the unitary executive theory.
• Incorrect portrayal of Cheney’s political stances and influence.
• Misleading narratives about Cheney’s intentions and actions.

Political and Historical Misunderstandings

• Allegations of Cheney's involvement in Iraq oil conspiracies misrepresented.
• The film's narrative about Iraq's invasion motivations is flawed.
• Misunderstanding of Cheney's and Bush's decision-making processes.

Conclusion on "Vice"

• The movie is seen as fueling myths and conspiracies rather than providing a factual account.
• Critique of the film's role in perpetuating violence and misunderstandings.

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