How a 1987 Film Set In 1856 Nicaragua Helps Explain 2007 Iraq
Bob Harris, author of Trebekistan, explores the parallels between William Walker’s expedition to “stabilize” Nicaragua and Bush’s current adventure in Iraq. (h/t Laura)
Walker is never once seen as less than sincere in his madness, and it’s precisely that appearance of honesty amid utter self-delusion that attracts a cult of followers who can never allow themselves to see the grotesque horrors which result.
The parallels are so clear — not just to one side in one war, but to damn near any rationalization of violence as part of a better, higher good, anywhere — and the brilliant black comedy of it all is so relentlessly drawn, that I’m surprised the film hasn’t become more of a cult favorite among the current antiwar crowd.
Posted by Garrett on August 8th, 2007 in Movies, Politics | No Comments
