Wag the Dog

Wag the Dog

Year: 1997

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Barry Levinson

DramaComedy

Facing a looming reelection campaign and a damaging sex scandal, a desperate president enlists a team of crisis managers to fabricate a national crisis. They concoct a phony war in Albania, orchestrated by a brilliant but unscrupulous spin doctor and a Hollywood producer. As the media becomes captivated by the manufactured conflict, the team races against time to maintain the illusion, leading to a darkly comedic and satirical look at political manipulation and the power of the media.

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Timeline & Setting – Wag the Dog (1997)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Wag the Dog (1997). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film is set in a contemporary period reflecting modern political dynamics and media influence. It showcases the manipulation of public perception during a critical election season, highlighting the importance of media and propaganda.

Location

Oval Office, Albania

The Oval Office is the official office of the President of the United States, known for its iconic decor and as a hub of political power. Albania serves as the backdrop for the fabricated war narrative, representing a far-off conflict instrumental in diverting public attention from scandals.

🏛️ Government 🌍 War Zone

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:10

Main Characters – Wag the Dog (1997)

Meet the key characters of Wag the Dog (1997), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Conrad Brean (Robert De Niro)

Conrad Brean is a sharp and persuasive spin doctor enlisted to craft a narrative that deflects attention from a presidential scandal. He navigates complex moral dilemmas while orchestrating a grand deception, showcasing his intelligence and resourcefulness. However, he is also aware of the ethical implications of his actions.

🧠 Intelligence 🎩 Manipulative

Stanley Motss (Dustin Hoffman)

Stanley Motss is a Hollywood producer tasked with bringing Brean's fabricated war to life. Charismatic and passionate, he exhibits unyielding dedication to his craft but struggles with feelings of being undervalued. His desire for acknowledgment ultimately leads to his tragic downfall, underscoring his complex character traits.

🎬 Creative 📈 Ambitious

Winifred Ames (Anne Heche)

Winifred Ames is a presidential aide who plays a crucial role in orchestrating the media distraction. She is pragmatic and strategic, balancing her ambitions with the responsibility of the deception. Her character highlights the interplay of loyalty and ambition in the political landscape.

📉 Ambitious 🔧 Strategic

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:10

Major Themes – Wag the Dog (1997)

Explore the central themes of Wag the Dog (1997), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

📰 Media Manipulation

Wag the Dog explores the power of media in shaping public opinion. The central plot revolves around the fabrication of a war to distract the public from political scandals, demonstrating how narratives can be orchestrated to control perception. It raises questions about truth and the ethics of using media for political gain.

🎭 Deception

The theme of deception is prevalent as the characters create an elaborate ruse to maintain power. This manipulation affects not only the political landscape but also the lives of ordinary citizens who become pawns in the charade. The film critiques the lengths to which individuals will go for personal and political security.

💔 Consequences of Actions

The story illustrates how actions born from deceit can lead to tragic outcomes. The character of Stanley Motss, in his quest for recognition, suffers dire consequences, culminating in a heart attack. This theme reflects the heavy burden of guilt and responsibility that accompanies manipulation.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:10

Unlock the Full Story of Wag the Dog

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Wag the Dog Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Wag the Dog, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Wag the Dog Summary

Wag the Dog Timeline

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Wag the Dog Timeline

More About Wag the Dog

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More About Wag the Dog

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