Watch Videocracy

Videocracy is a 2009 documentary film directed by Erik Gandini. The movie takes viewers into the world of Italian television, where the lines between reality and fiction are blurred, and where the power of the media reigns supreme. The film is a scathing critique of Italian media culture, particularly that of former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi.

Throughout the film, we see the ways in which Italian culture has become increasingly focused on superficial appearances and celebrity culture. We meet Flavio Briatore, a wealthy businessman who created the reality show "The Apprentice" in Italy, and who plays a significant role in shaping the public persona of politicians and other public figures. We also meet Fabio Calvi, a paparazzo who has built a successful career capturing images of celebrities for Italian tabloids.

One of the central themes of the film is the role played by Berlusconi in shaping the Italian media landscape. Berlusconi, who owned much of the country's media before becoming prime minister, is portrayed as a cunning operator who uses his power and influence to shape public opinion and boost his own image. We see footage of Berlusconi's lavish parties, complete with scantily-clad women and high-profile guests, and we hear from people who have worked for him in the past and who describe his penchant for control and manipulation.

The film also explores the impact of Berlusconi's media empire on Italian politics. We see how journalists who are critical of Berlusconi are often silenced or marginalized, and how politicians who are willing to ally themselves with the media mogul can benefit from his influence. Through interviews with Italian citizens, the film reveals the extent to which Berlusconi has succeeded in shaping public opinion and creating a culture that values celebrity over substance.

Despite its bleak themes, Videocracy is a visually stunning film that uses music, sound, and imagery to create a vivid portrait of contemporary Italy. The film is, at times, both humorous and disturbing, and it serves as a powerful indictment of the ways in which media culture can shape our values and beliefs.

Overall, Videocracy is a thought-provoking and engaging film that sheds light on a little-known aspect of Italian culture. It is well worth watching for anyone interested in media studies, politics, or cultural criticism.

Videocracy is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 60.