Shock and Awe

Shock and Awe

Year: 2018

Runtime: 90 min

Language: English

BiographyDramaHistoryThriller

As the US invasion of Iraq looms in 2003, a team of dogged reporters probes the Bush administration's claims of WMDs, exposing the blurred lines between politics and propaganda in a gripping drama that probes the nature of truth and accountability.

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Timeline & Setting – Shock and Awe (2018)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Shock and Awe (2018). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

2001-2006

The story unfolds during the early 2000s, a turbulent period marked by the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. This era saw significant military and political upheaval as the U.S. justified its invasion of Iraq under the pretext of national security and weapons of mass destruction. The complexities of media, politics, and war shaped the policies and public perception of that time.

Location

Washington, Iraq, Afghanistan

The movie takes place primarily in Washington, D.C., a hub of political activity and decision-making in the United States. It also delves into the war-torn landscapes of Iraq and Afghanistan, highlighting the devastation caused by military conflicts. These locations are historically significant, especially during the early 21st century, due to the U.S. invasion of Iraq and the ongoing war against terrorism.

🏛️ Capital 🌍 Middle East 📜 Military

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Main Characters – Shock and Awe (2018)
Meet the key characters of Shock and Awe (2018), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Adam Green

Adam Green is a retired Army veteran whose life changed drastically after losing his legs in combat. He is portrayed as determined and courageous, seeking answers about the rationale behind the U.S. invasion of Iraq. Adam embodies the struggles faced by veterans who grapple with their sacrifices and the political decisions made by leaders.

🪖 Veteran ⚖️ Justice 🤔 Inquiry

John Walcott

John Walcott is the bureau head for Knight Ridder in Washington, driven by a commitment to journalistic integrity. He serves as a mentor to younger reporters, pushing for thorough investigations of the claims made by the government. His character reflects the role of the media in questioning authority and seeking the truth.

📰 Journalist 🔍 Investigator 📡 Media

Warren Strobel

Warren Strobel is a tenacious reporter who partners with Walcott to investigate claims made about Iraq. He showcases the anxiety and moral dilemmas journalists face when uncovering uncomfortable truths about war. Warren's character illustrates the importance of skepticism and diligence in the pursuit of factual reporting.

📰 Reporter 📖 Investigative 🎖️ Courageous

Jonathan Landay

Jonathan Landay is a dedicated journalist, navigating the complexities of reporting on the Iraq War while dealing with personal conflicts at home. His character emphasizes the sacrifice journalists make in their professional lives and the toll it takes on their relationships. He represents the struggle between personal life and professional duty.

📰 Reporter ❤️ Relationship 🎯 Focused

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

Major Themes – Shock and Awe (2018)
Explore the central themes of Shock and Awe (2018), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss is deeply woven throughout the narrative, from the personal loss experienced by Adam Green due to war injuries to the broader loss of life in Iraq. The film grapples with the devastating impact of war, making audiences reflect on the human cost of political decisions. It emphasizes the sacrifices made by veterans and the families torn apart by conflict.

📰 Truth

The pursuit of truth is a central theme, as journalists battle against political narratives to uncover the reality behind the Iraq War. The film highlights the challenges of investigative journalism in the face of governmental pressure and misinformation. It sheds light on the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions and the integrity of the news media.

⚔️ Conflict

Conflict is not only portrayed through the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan but also in the ideological battles within the U.S. government and media. The film explores the tension between national pride and militaristic actions, questioning the justification and repercussions of war. This theme resonates especially during discussions of democracy and interventionism in foreign countries.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:45

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