Fahrenheit 9/11

Michael Moore 2004

It’s a common fact that politicians lie, however the extent of their lies and the power they use and abuse isn’t always apparent.

In “Fahrenheit 9/11” Michael Moore takes a look at the Bush administration and some of the most shocking events of the last few years…the September 11th terrorist attacks and the war in Iraq.

The election process that chose Bush was a farce, ok we knew that, but how it was done and the extent to which it has been covered up is surprising. We also discover that the Bush and Bin Laden families are old friends, connected by many (often suspect) business deals. Also the majority of Bush’s cabinet are involved in businesses that profit one way or another from Saudi involvement or deals.

Once again Michael Moore gives us an informative and entertaining documentary, wonderfully edited. A good mix of humour and stark reality that drives home a much-needed wake up call about world affairs.

The only real issue I had with this documentary was length. The first half of the film was punchy and full of stats and facts and often left you shaking your head in disbelief. After a while though, it seemed to lose steam and became very anecdotal. It focused more on one family and the loss of a son in Iraq. Which while being obviously distressing does seem to meander.

So I went from thinking that Bush was a bumbling hillbilly play-acting at being President. To realizing he is a man from a family driven by greed, whose poor judgment and delay tactics have cost far too many lives, American and otherwise. A man who keeps the American people in a state of terror, because fear makes people easier to control.

Its been said that this documentary is one sided, which indeed it is. But if you want the other side you just have to go back and watch the news coverage and Presidential reports from the days following 9/11 and the Iraq war.

Overall Moore has again made an intelligent, accessible and entertaining documentary. Well worth seeing.

Use enough red tape and you can strangle and silence the truth.