Saturday, September 16, 2006
The Power of Nightmares
Once upon a time, the BBC aired a very powerful documentary entitled "The Power of Nightmares" directed by Adam Curtis. Subtitled "The Rise of the Politics of Fear", this three-part film examines the history, philosophies, and similarities between Islamic Fundamentalism in the Middle East, and the Neo-Conservative movement in America. Originally aired November 2004, this program has never been televised in the United States. This film is a must see, and I strongly urge you to watch it. It is both fascinating and frightening, and an important study for all citizens.
The following is an excerpt from the introductory narration:
"Instead of delivering dreams, politicians now promise to protect us from nightmares. They say that they will rescue us from dreadful dangers that we cannot see, and do not understand. And the greatest danger of all is international terrorism, a powerful and sinister network with sleeper cells in countries across the world. A threat that needs to be fought by a "War On Terror." But much of this threat is a fantasy which has been exaggerated and distorted by politicians. It's a dark illusion that has spread unquestioned through governments around the world, the security services, and the international media. This is a series of films about how and why that fantasy was created, and who it benefits."
I first saw "The Power of Nightmares" in 2005, after downloading the MPEG2 files from archive.org, a very comprehensive, public domain content site. Here are some downloading and viewing suggestions:
- For MPEG downloads (64kb, 256kb MPEG4, & MPEG2 versions in 3 parts each) click here. The MPEG2 files are the highest quality, but also the largest file size (about 1 Gigabyte per chapter), so you'll need a high-speed connection and some spare time. Low & medium resolution MPEG4 streams are also available at this link.
- A 4.4 Gigabyte NTSC DVD ISO version is available here. This MPEG2 file simplifies the process of creating a (legal) video DVD.
- You can also view video streams at Google Video or Information Clearing House.
Not surprisingly, much of the negative criticism I've read regarding this film has been written by individuals who have not actually seen it. Again, I urge everyone to take the time to watch "The Power of Nightmares" ASAP! Information and knowledge can be an extremely motivational impetus to take action and inspire others to do the same. This November, please take action by voting. Vote for truth. Vote for progress. Vote for change.
# posted by brain @ 8:16 PM 
