Vice

On September 11, 2001, a grave decision is made within an underground bunker at the White House. With President Bush's authority, any aircraft identified as a threat is set to be shot down, signaling the intense and uncertain atmosphere of the time.

The story unfolds with a glimpse into the early years of Dick Cheney and Lynne Cheney. Young Lynne is a driven student, urging wayward Dick, freshly expelled from Yale, to regain control of his life, showcasing their complex dynamic.

Dick Cheney undertakes a congressional internship, where he develops an unexpected bond with Donald Rumsfeld. This connection serves as a launching pad for his political career, though it is cut short when Rumsfeld is dispatched overseas.

Lynne Cheney's family suffers a tragedy as her mother drowns under mysterious circumstances. This incident raises speculation about domestic violence, though no legal actions follow, significantly impacting Lynne's family dynamic.

As Rumsfeld returns to the U.S., Dick Cheney becomes his close advisor and rises in political ranks. Following the Watergate scandal, he is appointed Chief of Staff, exposing him to controversial political ideologies that reshape his approach.

After running for Congress in Wyoming, Dick Cheney faces a heart attack mid-campaign. Lynne steps in to assist him during this pivotal time, leading to his eventual victory and solidifying their partnership.

Cheney plays a crucial role in repealing the fairness doctrine, contributing to the emergence of conservative media like Fox News. This shift marks a significant turning point in American media and political discourse.

Dick Cheney's daughter Mary faces personal upheaval as she abruptly leaves school following tensions with her girlfriend. Despite familial challenges, Dick offers unwavering support, highlighting the family's internal dynamics.

Receiving a compelling offer from George W. Bush, Cheney shifts from Halliburton CEO to Vice President. His expertise in political strategy makes him a key figure in the administration, impacting significant national policies.

Following the events of 9/11, Cheney becomes fixated on Iraq, seeking to connect Saddam Hussein to the terrorist attacks. His influence leads to dubious intelligence claims that unjustifiably justify military action.

The push towards war culminates in the invasion of Iraq, premised on the false justification of weapons of mass destruction. This decision triggers a series of events that lead to significant geopolitical and humanitarian implications.

Cheney's tenure is marred by scandals, including accidentally shooting a friend and the exposure of Valerie Plame's identity. These events highlight the controversial nature of his vice presidency and the unbound political maneuvering.

Cheney's policies result in substantial loss of life, with thousands of soldiers and civilians affected by the Iraq War. The human cost of his administration's decisions continues to reverberate through American society.

The conditions created by the Iraq War lead to the rise of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, laying groundwork for the eventual emergence of ISIS. This underscores the far-reaching consequences of decisions made during Cheney's vice presidency.

As the credits roll, a focus group grapples with the complexities of political bias portrayed in the film. This moment encourages viewers to reflect on the intricate realities and diverse perspectives surrounding the historical events depicted.