From Box Office to Ballot Box

Given the complexity and expense of making and distributing a film, the process of filmmaking is by its very nature a political process. Moreover, given the power and persuasiveness of the cinema as a medium, film can be a powerful political tool. It should thus come as no surprise that film has had a long and extensive engagement with a variety of political topics. Focusing on films made after World War II, this survey notes both the reluctance of American films to come to grips with serious political issues, and the extent to which American film has nevertheless provided important commentary on such issues.