"Wag the Dog," directed by Barry Levinson and released in 1997, remains a pertinent and incisive satire on the lengths to which political figures will go to divert public attention from scandals. The film, starring Dustin Hoffman and Robert De Niro, showcases the power of media manipulation, raising questions about truth, reality, and the ethics of those in power. The term "wag the dog" itself carries significant historical and literary weight, stemming from an era long before the advent of modern spin doctors.
The Origin of "Wag the Dog"
The phrase "wag the dog" is derived from a lesser-known but historically significant play, "Our American Cousin," written by Tom Taylor in 1858. This farcical comedy, which gained notoriety for being the play President Abraham Lincoln was watching when he was assassinated at Ford's Theatre on April 14, 1865, involves an English gentleman, Asa Trenchard, who visits his American relatives and encounters various humorous and absurd situations.
The phrase "wag the dog" itself suggests a situation where something of lesser importance (the tail) controls something of greater importance (the dog). In the context of the play, it humorously critiques the inversion of roles and expectations. This phrase adeptly captures the essence of the film "Wag the Dog," where the manipulation of media (the tail) dictates public perception and political outcomes (the dog).
The Plot of "Wag the Dog"
In "Wag the Dog," the plot kicks off with a fictional scandal involving the President of the United States, just weeks before an election. To distract the public, Conrad Brean (played by Robert De Niro), a top-notch spin doctor, teams up with Hollywood producer Stanley Motss (Dustin Hoffman) to fabricate a war with Albania. Through a series of meticulously planned media events and fabricated news reports, they create the illusion of a crisis that shifts public attention away from the president’s indiscretions.
The film delves into the mechanics of media manipulation, from creating fake footage to orchestrating press leaks, demonstrating how easily public perception can be swayed. Hoffman’s character, based loosely on real-life Hollywood producer Robert Evans, epitomizes the blending of entertainment and politics, where the line between reality and fiction blurs.
Levinson's Direction and the Cast's Brilliance
Barry Levinson, known for his astute directorial touch in films like "Rain Man" and "Good Morning, Vietnam," brings a sharp, satirical eye to "Wag the Dog." His direction ensures that the humor, while biting, never overshadows the film's critical examination of political ethics. The performances of De Niro and Hoffman are particularly noteworthy. De Niro’s portrayal of the unflappable, calculating Brean contrasts perfectly with Hoffman’s flamboyant, egotistical Motss, creating a dynamic that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Parallels with Contemporary Politics
"Wag the Dog" was released just before the Monica Lewinsky scandal broke, making its depiction of political diversion tactics eerily prescient. The film's themes resonate even more strongly today, in an era characterized by "fake news" and pervasive media spin. The techniques of distraction and manipulation showcased in the film have become more sophisticated with the rise of social media and 24-hour news cycles, but the fundamental principles remain unchanged.
The film raises important questions about the integrity of those in power and the susceptibility of the public to manipulation. It prompts viewers to consider how often they might be misled by carefully crafted narratives and to remain vigilant about the sources of their information.
Could "Wag the Dog" Be Made Today?
In today's polarized political climate, "Wag the Dog" would likely be both easier and harder to produce. On one hand, the prevalence of disinformation and the public's growing awareness of media manipulation provide fertile ground for such a narrative. On the other hand, the film’s cynical view of politics might face backlash from various political factions who feel targeted or misrepresented.
Nevertheless, the core message of "Wag the Dog" remains critically relevant. As long as there are powerful figures willing to distort reality for their benefit, and as long as there is a media landscape ready to broadcast these distortions, the film's lessons will continue to resonate.
"Wag the Dog" is more than just a comedy; it is a sharp, enduring commentary on the power of media and the lengths to which politicians will go to maintain control. Barry Levinson’s film, supported by stellar performances from Hoffman and De Niro, provides a lens through which to view and critique the intricate dance between politics and public perception. The phrase "wag the dog," with its rich historical and literary roots, encapsulates the essence of this manipulation, reminding us that sometimes the tail does indeed wag the dog.