Watch The War on Democracy

The War on Democracy is a documentary film released in 2007 directed and presented by Australian journalist John Pilger. The film explores the role of the United States government in overthrowing democratic governments and installing repressive, often brutal, regimes in Latin America. Pilger takes the audience on a journey through the history of US intervention in Latin America, focusing on specific incidents and events that illustrate the extent of America's role in the subversion of democracy in countries such as Chile, Venezuela, and Bolivia. The film interviews numerous experts and activists, including former CIA agent Philip Agee and Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the subtle and not-so-subtle tactics used by the US government to install and maintain dictators in the region.

Through a mix of archival footage and contemporary interviews, The War on Democracy tells the story of Latin America’s often-forgotten struggle for freedom and democracy. The film highlights the key role played by the US government in toppling popular, left-leaning leaders and elevating right-wing military dictators who were willing to do America's bidding.

One of the most poignant moments in the film comes when Pilger speaks with the family of Chilean President Salvador Allende, who was toppled in a violent coup led by General Augusto Pinochet in 1973. Allende’s family recounts the horror they experienced on the day of the coup, as they were held hostage and threatened at gunpoint by Pinochet's forces. The family’s recounting of their personal tragedy is a powerful reminder of the human cost of America's thirst for control and domination of Latin America and the rest of the world.

The film also sheds light on the current political climate in Latin America, addressing the rise of left-leaning governments that have challenged US hegemony in the region. For example, it takes an in-depth look at the ongoing efforts by the US government to undermine the government of President Hugo Chavez and the movements it has sparked across the region that have challenged the neoliberal economic policies that have dominated the region for decades.

Perhaps the most important message of The War on Democracy is that the struggle for democracy is ongoing and never-ending. The documentary shows that America will stop at nothing to ensure that its interests are served and that its will is done. It is up to the people of Latin America, and the world, to resist this agenda and fight for a world in which democracy, freedom, and justice are the guiding principles.

Overall, The War on Democracy is an informative and thought-provoking documentary that presents a compelling case for why the US government's foreign policy should be subject to grave scrutiny. It is a reminder of what can happen when the forces of imperialism and greed are left unchecked and a warning about the dangers of apathy and indifference to the struggles of our fellow human beings.

The War on Democracy is a 2007 history movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.