HIS FPX 1150 Assessment 5 History in the Movie, Fact or Fiction

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Capella University

HIS FPX 1150 U.S. History: How the Past Informs the Present

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Date

History in the Movies: Fact or Fiction

In 2020, Aaron Sorkin’s historical movie “The Trial of the Chicago 7” was released in theaters. The film recounts the infamous trial of seven activists accused of conspiring to incite disturbances during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The acting, direction, and writing of the movie have received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike.

However, as is common with many historical dramas, questions arise regarding how much of the plot is fictionalized versus how much is rooted in reality. To evaluate the movie’s adherence to historical facts, this analysis will examine the accuracy of its portrayal of the trial’s characters and events (Foster, 2021).

The accuracy of the movie (2020) will be assessed within the context of communication and problem-solving skills. Strong problem-solving techniques, along with considering all sides of a situation, can help in constructing compelling arguments. Beyond the scope of this course, verifying information before making decisions, whether in business or personal life, can lead to more effective and timely resolutions. It also helps in avoiding decisions based on arbitrary or inaccurate information.

HIS FPX 1150 Assessment 5 History in the Movies: Fact or Fiction

The historical movie “The Trial of the Chicago 7” focuses on the prosecution of seven anti-Vietnam War protesters who were charged with conspiracy and inciting violence during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. According to the movie, the Nixon administration orchestrated the trial as a political spectacle intended to intimidate the anti-war movement and suppress dissent. The defendants, including Tom Hayden, Bobby Seale, Abbie Hoffman, and others, face the challenge of defending themselves against a biased judge and a hostile prosecution. The film portrays the defendants as representing a range of political ideologies and backgrounds. It highlights the tension and antagonism between the protesters and the police, culminating in a violent confrontation that leads to numerous injuries and arrests (Foster, 2021).

Summary: The Trial of the Chicago 7

The film also explores the personal lives of the defendants, depicting them as complex individuals who are deeply committed to their beliefs. Abbie Hoffman, portrayed by Sacha Baron Cohen, offers comic relief while simultaneously raising serious questions about the nature of protest and the boundaries of free speech. The ensemble cast, which includes Eddie Redmayne, Mark Rylance, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, delivers powerful performances that bring the characters to life and convey the emotional weight of the trial (Cavender & Jurik, 2020). Overall, the movie is a gripping and thought-provoking film that illuminates a significant moment in American history and raises critical questions about justice, democracy, and the role of protest in society.

Historical Facts of the Movie

Although the movie is engaging and well-crafted, it does take certain liberties with historical facts and events. For instance, the film portrays Bobby Seale, the co-founder of the Black Panther Party, as one of the defendants, even though he was not part of the Chicago Eight (later Seven) and only briefly participated in the protests. Additionally, the movie exaggerates the role of undercover police officers in inciting violence and minimizes the role of protesters in escalating the situation. While the film accurately depicts the bias of Judge Julius Hoffman and the prosecution’s efforts to railroad the defendants, it simplifies the legal and political complexities of the trial and the issues at stake (Gray, 2020).

HIS FPX 1150 Assessment 5 History in the Movies: Fact or Fiction

Despite these departures from historical accuracy, the film successfully captures the spirit and energy of the anti-war movement and the atmosphere of the trial. The movie underscores the importance of dissent and free speech in a democracy and raises critical questions about the government’s role in suppressing dissent and manipulating the justice system. It also vividly portrays the personalities and passions of the defendants, who faced tremendous odds and the risk of imprisonment to speak truth to power. In summary, while the movie takes creative liberties with historical facts, it effectively captures the essence and significance of the events for American history and democracy (Gray, 2020).

Movie Impacts and the Public’s Understanding

The movie has played a significant role in shedding light on the complex and controversial trial that followed the 1968 Democratic National Convention protests, a subject that many people were previously unaware of or had limited knowledge about. By depicting the events and individuals involved, the film has drawn attention to the systemic biases and injustices that occurred during the trial (Gopinath & Deshmukh, 2023).

Moreover, the movie has humanized and highlighted the historical figures involved in the trial, such as Abbie Hoffman, Tom Hayden, and Bobby Seale. By showcasing their perspectives, struggles, and personal lives, the film has helped to dispel myths and stereotypes surrounding these individuals and has underscored the diversity of people involved in the movement (Gopinath & Deshmukh, 2023).

The movie has also contributed to a broader understanding of the political and social context of the time, including the Vietnam War, civil rights, and counterculture movements. By depicting the interactions and tensions between different groups and ideologies, the film provides a more comprehensive and nuanced portrayal of the era and the struggles that defined it (Gopinath & Deshmukh, 2023).

Changes to Improve the Movie’s Portrayal

The accuracy and script of movies play a crucial role in improving their portrayal. Filmmakers can consult historical experts, primary sources, and contemporary accounts to ensure that the events and characters depicted are faithful to the historical record. They can also aim to present the broader social, political, and economic context of the events and the perspectives of different groups and individuals involved (Sahu et al., 2022).

By offering a more nuanced and complex portrayal of the past, filmmakers can help audiences understand the intricacies and contradictions of history and avoid perpetuating stereotypes and myths. Furthermore, filmmakers should be mindful of the ethical and political implications of their work. They should strive to represent marginalized voices and perspectives, avoid perpetuating stereotypes and biases, and promote empathy, understanding, and dialogue (Sahu et al., 2022).

HIS FPX 1150 Assessment 5 History in the Movies: Fact or Fiction

The movie provides a thoughtful account of the 1968 Democratic National Convention protests and the subsequent trial of a group of activists charged with inciting riots. It highlights the contradictions and biases of the justice system and presents a critical view of the political climate of the time. By showcasing the perspectives and experiences of the marginalized voices involved in the trial, the film promotes empathy, understanding, and dialogue about the historical events it portrays (Sahu et al., 2022).

Similarly, the movie “Selma” (2014) depicted the civil rights movement with sensitivity, respect, and historical accuracy, sparking national conversations about racial justice and political activism. By prioritizing these values, filmmakers can create movies that not only entertain and educate but also inspire and empower audiences to engage with the world in meaningful ways.

Analysis of the Movie

The Nation historian, Michael Kazin, notes that the movie oversimplifies the political and legal intricacies of the trial and exaggerates the role of undercover police officers in inciting violence. However, Kazin also commends the film for emphasizing the personal stories of the defendants and highlighting the importance of dissent and free expression in a democracy. He writes, “By foregrounding the human stories of the defendants and dramatizing the government’s blatant attempts to crush political dissent, Sorkin gives new life to a story that too many Americans have forgotten or never knew.” (Kazin, 2020)

Similarly, Rolling Stone film critic Peter Travers praises the movie for its compelling storytelling and strong performances but acknowledges that the film takes some liberties with the historical record. He writes, “While Sorkin’s script fudges facts and dialogue, it’s a rare movie that does right by history and by its audience.” (Travers, 2020) Travers also emphasizes the relevance of the film’s message for contemporary politics and social justice movements, stating, “Sorkin’s take on the case is a rallying cry for today’s protesters to take heart: The power of dissent can topple a system rigged against the people.” (Travers, 2020).

By incorporating the perspectives of historical experts and film critics, a nuanced and informed analysis of the impact and value of historical movies can be developed.

Conclusion

Historical movies significantly influence the public’s understanding of events, individuals, and movements. Although they may take creative liberties with the historical record, these films can serve as valuable tools for educating and inspiring audiences, fostering empathy and understanding, and encouraging critical reflection on the past and present. By striving for historical accuracy, context, and ethical awareness, these movies can inform and contribute to a more informed and democratic society.

References

Cavender, G., & Jurik, N. C. (2020). Book Review: Aaron Sorkin (dir.), The whole world was watching, but what do we remember? A review of “The Trial of the Chicago 7.” Crime, Media, Culture: An International Journal. https://doi.org/10.1177/1741659020981436

Foster, N. (2021). The Trial of the Chicago 7: More radical than fiction. Film Matters, 12(1), 111–116. https://doi.org/10.1386/fm_00136_7

Gopinath, S., & Deshmukh, R. (2023). Historicizing myths in contemporary India: Cinematic representations and nationalist agendas in Hindi cinema. Taylor & Francis. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003363149

Gray, S. (2020). Aaron Sorkin’s America: Politics, Trauma, and the Liberal Genius. (1st ed.). Rutgers University Press. https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv14gpm9m

Kazin, M. (2020). The Trial of the Chicago 7. The Nation, 311(11), 41-44.