The Fog Of War
- Country
- USA
- Year
- 2003
- Director
- Errol Morris
- Producer
- Errol Morris, Michael Williams, Julie Ahlberg
- Finance
- Sony Picture Classics, Radical Media, Senart Films, Globe Department Store
- Length
- 95 minutes
- Website
- www.sonyclassics.com/fogofwar/
Synopsis
The Fog of War is the story of America as seen through the eyes of the former Secretary of Defence, Robert S. McNamara. One of the most controversial and influential figures in world politics, he takes us on an insider's view of the seminal events of the 20th Century. Why was this past Century the most destructive and deadly in all of human history? Are we doomed to repeat our mistakes? Are we free to make choices, or are we at the mercy of inexorable historical forces and ideologies?
From the firebombing of 100,000 Japanese civilians in Tokyo in 1945 to the brink of nuclear catastrophe during the Cuban missile crisis to the devastating effects of the Vietnam War, The Fog of War examines the psychology and reasoning of the government decision-makers who send men to war. How were decisions made and for what reason? What can we learn from these historical events?
Impact
As American forces occupy Iraq and the possibility of additional military conflict looms large, The Fog of War is essential viewing for anyone who wants to understand how the American government justifies the use of military force. Combining extraordinary archival footage, recreations, and newly declassified White House recordings, the film is a disquieting and powerful essay on war, rationality, and human nature.
AWARDS
Academy
2003 Best Documentary Feature
Chicago Film Critics Association
2003 Best Documentary
2003 Best Original Score Philip Glass
Independent Spirit Award
2003 Best Documentary Errol Morris
L.A. Film Critics Association
2003 Best Documentary
National Board of Review
2003 Best Documentary
Toronto Film Critics Association
2004 Best Documentary