In the world of soft drinks, few rivalries are as iconic and enduring as the battle between Pepsi and Coca-Cola. John Pilger’s documentary, “Burp Pepsi vs. Coke,” produced in 1982, delves into the intriguing history of these beloved brands while intertwining their stories with the complex backdrop of global politics. This eye-opening film uncovers a narrative that goes beyond refreshing beverages; it reveals how these fizzy drinks became pawns in a game of international power and diplomacy.
The documentary takes viewers on a historical journey, starting with the tumultuous era of World War II. It’s here that we see the perfect alignment between Coca-Cola and wartime distribution, with bottling plants strategically placed on frontlines, funded by the U.S. War Department. Surprisingly, this even extended to supplying Coca-Cola to Nazi Germany. Such revelations offer a fascinating glimpse into the intricate connections between corporate interests and the machinery of war.
One of the most intriguing episodes showcased in the film is the audacious role of Pepsi in Cold War diplomacy. Nixon’s ingenious move of persuading Soviet leader Khrushchev to publicly sip Pepsi created history, making it the first U.S. product manufactured within the Soviet Union. This unexpected intersection of politics and cola marketing illustrates how soft drinks transcended mere consumer goods, becoming symbols of ideological rivalry.
Moreover, the documentary delves into the intricate dance between cola giants and authoritarian regimes. In Chile, the boss of Pepsi Cola ran a daily newspaper that, shockingly, played a covert role in aiding the CIA during Pinochet’s brutal coup. This narrative thread exposes the entanglement of corporate interests in global political affairs, revealing a side of these soda giants that many may find astonishing.
In conclusion, “Burp Pepsi vs. Coke” is not your typical documentary about fizzy drinks. It’s a riveting exploration of the interplay between corporate power and political maneuvering on a global scale. Viewers will be captivated by the untold stories behind these iconic beverages and how they’ve left an indelible mark on the world’s stage. This documentary serves as a thought-provoking reminder that sometimes, the most intriguing narratives can be found in the unlikeliest of places – even in a can of soda.