Propaganda Film Analysis

World War II claims the gut wrenching record of being the bloodiest war in all of human history with its death toll at 40-50 million1. The world witnessed a type of warfare never before seen. For instance, aircraft combat grew substantially, the threat of bombing a constant, dark cloud hanging over the head of England particularly. A war that lasted six years leveled entire cities, ripped apart families, and devastated nations from every corner of the globe. It would be a gross understatement to say that all the hysteria, fear, and anger generated during those dark years of 1935-1946 would affect a nation’s character. Those very sentiments would mold it - for better or for worse. In fact, the governments across the nations knew that as well as any person on the street. They understood that the only way to win was to keep the people in a certain state of mind; naturally, one handcrafted by their leaders. This is where propaganda film contributes to the war effort. When World War II is brought up in conversation, Nazis are at the forefront of every mind. However, …show more content…
Such is the case in the Fighting Seabees. John Wayne’s character captures the ideal American- hardworking and driven, suave, adored, and humorous. He also personifies the American way of life, which is best described as making mistakes and learning from experience. This is best demonstrated by the attack the construction workers endured on an island. Wedge made the call that his men did not require military training, just weapons. It was only when they were attacked and soundly defeated that he understood the importance of military grade preparation. He learned valuable lesson from a costly mistake, and he refused to repeat it. While it is true the bloodshed was an easily avoidable outcome (had Wedge listened), it reminded the audience that they are not their mistakes. They can only correct them and move