Exploring Political Propaganda in Popular Movies: Titanic, The Shape of Water, and Beyond

The concept of political propaganda has permeated various forms of media, including movies. By examining the roles of heroes and villains in films like Titanic and The Shape of Water, we can uncover layers of political messages that are often subtly embedded in narrative storytelling.

Introduction to Political Propaganda in Movies

Political propaganda is the deliberate crafting and disseminating of information or images intended to influence the opinions and beliefs of a particular audience. Movies, often hailed as a form of entertainment, frequently serve this function through the representation of characters as heroes or villains. This portrayal can subtly influence viewers' perceptions of various social and political issues.

Political Propaganda in Titanic: A Non-Political Movie?

Many believe that Titanic, directed by James Cameron in 1997, is a story focused solely on romance and disaster. However, closer examination reveals layers of political messaging. The primary conflict in the film revolves around the stowaway, Jack Dawson, and Rose, who are both portrayed in non-conformist ways, challenging traditional norms. In contrast, the rich and industrialists (like the wealthy White berthing characters) are often depicted negatively, representing greed and pillar of elitism.

Jack, a cheeky and rebellious individual, challenges the social norms of his time. He encourages Rose to enjoy her life, rather than living by societal expectations. By contrast, the characters of the wealthy socialites, such as Captain Cal Hockley, are portrayed as rigid and oppressive, thus positioning them as figures of opposition. This subtle propaganda aimed to critique social hierarchies and promote the notion of individual freedom and rebellion.

Political Propaganda in The Shape of Water: A Contemporary Example

The Shape of Water, directed by Guillermo del Toro in 2017, is another prime example of political messaging in movie analysis. The film garners critical acclaim for its imaginative narrative, visual splendor, and allegorical depth. The central hero of the story is an oppressed minority, Elisa, played by Sally Hawkins. She works in the facility where a mysterious creature, an Aquarian alien, is being held and studied.

The creature is a victim of exploitation and cruelty, embodying the figure of an outsider struggling under an oppressive regime. Elisa forms a bond with the alien, fostering a sense of empathy and solidarity. This relationship serves as a metaphor for dealing with oppression and inequality, often seen through the lens of racial and gender issues. The villain, in this case, is the military personnel, led by the General, who dehumanize and exploit the alien for their own purposes.

By presenting a non-verbal, alien protagonist as the hero, The Shape of Water directly critiques the notion of rationality and morality associated with elite military personnel. The film thus offers a powerful critique of the dehumanization of Others and the destructive power of institutionalized oppression.

Effectiveness of Political Propaganda in Movies

The effectiveness of political propaganda in movies lies in its ability to create emotional engagement, making viewers more receptive to the underlying messages. For instance, the portrayal of Jack Dawson and his relationship with Rose in Titanic is so compelling that the underlying critique of social hierarchy becomes a secondary narrative that deeply resonates with the audience.

The same is true for The Shape of Water, where the visual and emotional investiture in Elisa's character and her plight as an outsider resonates on a profound level, often leading viewers to reflect on real-world issues of oppression and marginalization.

Moreover, the subtlety of these messages in movies often means that viewers are more likely to absorb and reflect on these ideas without the direct confrontational tone that is sometimes associated with overt propaganda.

Conclusion

Prominent movies like Titanic and The Shape of Water not only tell compelling stories but also serve as platforms for delivering subtle political propaganda. By examining the characters and their roles in these films, we can better understand the nuanced ways in which filmmakers influence our perceptions and societal beliefs.

The effectiveness of these messages lies in their integration into the fabric of the narrative, making the political commentary compelling and thought-provoking rather than alienating or preachy.

References

Cameron, J. (1997). Titanic. Touchstone Pictures.

del Toro, G. (2017). The Shape of Water. Focus Features.