The Fog of War: Eleven Lessons from the Life of Robert S. McNamara
Fog Of War, McNamara, War, Kennedy, Errol Morris
It is the story of America as seen through the eyes of the former Secretary of Defense, 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?
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, newly declassified White House recordings, and an original score by the Oscar nominated composer, Philip Glass, the film is a disquieting and powerful essay on war, rationality, and human nature.
Reviewer: Jhardycarroll - favoritefavoritefavoritefavoritefavorite - September 2, 2020
Subject: First-Person Singular
Bob is an unreliable narrator, as Errol Morris knows all too well. Perfectly candid about things that make him look good (the Cuban missile crisis), and somewhat remorseful about his role in the firebombing of Japanese cities, he nonetheless remains evasive about Vietnam. He alone knew that Kennedy wanted out, and that the CIA was not a trustworthy source of intelligence… but Bob disagreed, and used his position to manipulate Johnson into a no-win situation. Did McNamara help prevent WW3 with the Soviets in 1962 and after? Was he responsible for millions of dead and wounded? Errol lets you be the judge. This is a must-see film for every American.
https://archive.org/details/TheFogOfWarElevenLessonsFromTheLifeOfRobertS.Mcnamara