The film 'The Green Berets' promoted the Vietnam War and downplayed war crimes, contributing to public polarization.
John Wayne's persona as a conservative, masculine hero influenced American conceptions of patriotism and recruitment for the Vietnam War.
John Wayne's controversial views and racist comments reinforced white supremacist narratives and gained support among conservatives.
Deep dives
The Green Berets: A Propaganda Film for the Vietnam War
The film 'The Green Berets' directed by John Wayne, was released in 1968 during the Vietnam War. It was an attempt to promote the war and gain public support through the portrayal of special forces soldiers as heroes. Despite negative reviews, the movie was commercially successful and solidified John Wayne's role as an icon of conservative masculinity. The film received assistance from the U.S. defense department, which led to script control by the Pentagon. This marked the beginning of a long collaboration between Hollywood and the military. 'The Green Berets' denied the reality of war crimes committed by American soldiers and downplayed the atrocities of the war. It created a false narrative that depicted U.S. soldiers as noble and always doing good. The film contributed to the polarization of public opinion and fueled anti-war protests.
John Wayne's Influence on American Masculinity and Recruitment
John Wayne's persona as a strong, masculine hero heavily influenced American conceptions of masculinity and patriotism. He became a symbol of conservative values and militaristic ideals. Wayne actively sought to recruit young men to fight in Vietnam, advocating for the war effort and ridiculing those who opposed it. This recruitment drive was fueled by his own shame for failing to serve in World War II. Wayne's portrayal of war in movies, including 'The Green Berets,' presented an idealized and propagandized version of military service, offering simplistic solutions and demonizing the enemy. His influence, combined with the government's support for the film, reinforced the narrative that America's actions in Vietnam were just and necessary, despite mounting evidence to the contrary.
Controversial Views and Racist Comments of John Wayne
Outside of his film career, John Wayne expressed controversial views and made racist comments. He referred to the Vietnamese people as 'gooks' and dismissed the concerns raised about the My Lai Massacre as a 'so-called' incident. Wayne's views on race were deeply ingrained and reflected a white supremacist perspective. His comments about Native Americans and African Americans were equally troubling. He propagated stereotypes and promoted a narrative of white supremacy and racial superiority. Despite criticism, Wayne found support among conservatives who shared his views. These divisive statements and his unyielding support for the Vietnam War further solidified his status as a revered figure among right-wing circles.
Legacy and Criticism
The Green Berets showcased John Wayne's role in promoting and perpetuating a distorted version of American masculinity and militarism. The film became a symbol of the divide between those who saw it as patriotic and those who recognized its propaganda. Wayne's unquestioning support for war and his denial of American war crimes tainted his legacy and sparked controversy. However, he remains an influential figure in American cinema, representing a bygone era of rugged individualism and reactionary politics.
John Wayne's Controversial Legacy
The podcast episode discusses the controversial legacy of John Wayne, focusing on his political views, racial stereotypes in his movies, and his attitude towards women. It highlights his public image as a symbol of American masculinity and conservatism, which continues to resonate with certain segments of society. The episode discusses his vocal support for conservative causes and his views on Native Americans, Japanese people, and women. It also mentions the clash between John Wayne and Marlon Brando at the 1973 Oscars, highlighting Wayne's negative reaction to Brando's support for Native American activism. Overall, the episode analyzes the ongoing influence of John Wayne's legacy and how it has shaped societal perceptions of masculinity and politics.
The Evolution of Masculinity in Hollywood
The podcast episode explores the evolution of masculinity in Hollywood and how it has influenced cultural perceptions of manhood. It discusses the shift from classic action stars like John Wayne to more nuanced portrayals of male characters, emphasizing emotional depth and vulnerability. The episode touches on the impact of films like 'Brokeback Mountain' and the rise of action heroes like Harrison Ford and Bruce Willis. It also delves into the role of masculinity in politics and its connection to conservative ideology. Overall, the episode highlights the changing norms of masculinity in the entertainment industry and society at large, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards redefining traditional gender roles and embracing more diverse and inclusive representations of men.
