Review: War Is Sell (A-)

War Is Sell (2004)
Directed by Brian Standing
MPAA: UR
Grade: A-

Review by Scott Standish

Anytime you go to war you can expect a battle on the homefront. Regardless of what some people say, people are pacifists by nature. If you want people to go to war and place their life on the line, you better do a good sales job. In other words, it better be worth it.

War Is Sell focuses on the "sell job" that governments must do to convince the public that their nation has no other choice but to go war. This film, expertly crafted by Brian Standing explains the steps that a government must take to spread their war "value proposition". War Is Sell does a fantastic job of explaining the role of propaganda clearly. Branding, marketing and advertising a government's message is important, especially on the home front. Usually this involves scaring the people to a point that they feel that they must rally around a protector. Silencing detractors is also a must. This technique has worked time and time again.

No matter what side you may be on when it comes to the current war (Iraq), you have to admit - war is a polarizing issue. People feel strongly about placing their sons and daughters in harm's way. Selling people on going to war often involves propaganda, or as some would frame it, misrepresenting the situation for one side's benefit. Media insiders, public relations executives and media analysts all give their opinions in War Is Sell. Footage of the gulf war, the Iraq War and WWII all come into play. Deftly crafted and expertly thought out, War Is Sell is an excellent documentary.