Award-winning journalist John Pilger takes a deep dive into the complex relationship between Washington and Latin American politics in his documentary, “The War on Democracy.” Spanning over 50 years, the film delves into the struggle of ordinary people to break free from poverty and racism, and the role played by the US in shaping the political landscape of the region.
Pilger sheds light on the long history of Latin America as the “backyard” of the US, where compliant and often brutal regimes have reinforced the invisibility of the majority population. The film goes on to reveal the disturbing parallels between these past policies and present-day practices in Iraq, Iran, and Lebanon.
One of the standout moments of the documentary is the portrayal of the rise of Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez, and the ongoing efforts by Washington to unseat him in spite of his overwhelming popularity. The film provides a powerful reminder of the true essence of democracy, as embodied by the solid 80% voter turnout in support of Chavez in over 6 elections.
“The War on Democracy” is a sobering examination of the intersection of power and democracy, and a call to action for those who believe in the transformative power of true representation. Pilger’s incisive commentary, paired with gripping footage, makes for a film that is both insightful and deeply impactful.