Vice, Adam McKay’s scathing and darkly humorous biopic about Dick Cheney, isn’t just a film you passively watch; it’s an experience that demands engagement and critical thinking. To truly “watch” Vice means understanding its satirical lens, appreciating its historical context, and recognizing its deliberate distortions and stylistic choices designed to provoke a reaction.
Understanding Vice: More Than Just Entertainment
Vice presents a highly subjective and critical view of Dick Cheney’s political career, tracing his ascent from a low-level staffer to one of the most influential vice presidents in American history. Unlike a traditional, objective biography, McKay employs a variety of techniques, including direct address to the audience, surrealist interludes, and jarring edits, to emphasize his interpretation of Cheney’s motivations and the consequences of his actions. To fully grasp the film’s message, viewers should approach it with a healthy dose of skepticism and a willingness to research the events depicted.
The Importance of Context
To truly “watch” Vice, you need to be aware that it is not a documentary. It is a dramatization, albeit one rooted in historical events. Understanding the political climate of the Bush administration, the rationale (however flawed) behind the Iraq War, and the legal debates surrounding executive power are crucial for interpreting the film’s arguments. Without this context, much of the film’s satire and critique will be lost.
Recognizing McKay’s Stylistic Choices
McKay intentionally breaks the fourth wall, uses flashbacks and flash-forwards, and incorporates dream sequences to highlight the absurdity and potential dangers of Cheney’s actions. These stylistic choices aren’t mere entertainment; they’re designed to force viewers to question the narrative being presented and to consider alternative perspectives. Paying attention to these techniques is paramount to “watching” Vice effectively.
Beyond the Screen: Engaging with the Film’s Themes
Merely observing the images on screen isn’t enough. Vice challenges viewers to grapple with complex issues, including the role of power in politics, the manipulation of public opinion, and the long-term consequences of political decisions.
Critical Thinking and Fact-Checking
Because Vice presents a particular perspective, it’s essential to engage in critical thinking and fact-checking. Research the key events depicted in the film, consult multiple sources, and compare different viewpoints. Don’t simply accept the film’s narrative at face value. Ask yourself: “Is this representation accurate? What evidence supports this claim? What alternative interpretations exist?”
Discussing and Debating
Vice is designed to spark conversation and debate. Share your thoughts and opinions with others, listen to different perspectives, and be open to changing your mind. Discussing the film with friends, family, or in a classroom setting can deepen your understanding and appreciation of its themes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Is Vice a historically accurate portrayal of Dick Cheney?
No, Vice is a dramatized interpretation of Dick Cheney’s life and career. While based on real events and drawing from publicly available information, it takes liberties with timelines, dialogue, and character motivations to create a compelling and provocative narrative. It should be viewed as a satirical commentary rather than a definitive historical record.
FAQ 2: What are some of the major criticisms of Vice?
Critics of Vice argue that it is overly biased and presents a one-sided view of Dick Cheney, demonizing him without acknowledging any potential positives or complexities. Some also criticize McKay’s stylistic choices as distracting and self-indulgent. Others argue that the film simplifies complex political issues for dramatic effect.
FAQ 3: What sources did Adam McKay use to create Vice?
Adam McKay and his team reportedly consulted numerous books, articles, and documentaries about Dick Cheney and the Bush administration. They also conducted interviews with individuals who had direct or indirect contact with Cheney. However, the specific sources used are not explicitly listed in the film’s credits.
FAQ 4: What is the significance of the film’s ending?
The ending of Vice, which shows Cheney addressing the camera directly and seemingly unapologetic for his actions, is designed to be unsettling. It suggests that Cheney’s actions were not driven by malice but by a deeply held belief in his own judgment and the necessity of his policies. It leaves the audience to grapple with the implications of this perspective.
FAQ 5: How does Christian Bale’s performance contribute to the film?
Christian Bale’s performance as Dick Cheney is widely praised for its physical transformation and nuanced portrayal of a man of few words. Bale captures Cheney’s stoicism, ambition, and calculated demeanor, making him a compelling and believable character, even if his portrayal is highly critical. His performance helps to ground the film’s more outlandish elements.
FAQ 6: What is “unitary executive theory” and why is it important to understanding Vice?
The unitary executive theory is a legal theory arguing that the President of the United States has complete control over the executive branch, including the power to interpret laws and policies without interference from Congress or the courts. Vice suggests that Cheney was a strong proponent of this theory and used it to justify his expansion of presidential power, particularly in the areas of national security and foreign policy.
FAQ 7: Is Vice appropriate for children?
Vice contains strong language, mature themes, and depictions of violence and political corruption. It is generally considered inappropriate for children and is rated R for its content.
FAQ 8: What other films explore similar themes of political power and corruption?
Films like All the President’s Men, Dr. Strangelove, The Big Short, and Zero Dark Thirty explore themes of political power, corruption, and the consequences of government actions. Watching these films alongside Vice can provide a broader context for understanding these issues.
FAQ 9: What role does Lynne Cheney play in the film, and is her portrayal accurate?
Lynne Cheney is portrayed as a highly ambitious and influential figure in the film, often pushing Dick to pursue greater power and influence. While the film’s depiction may be exaggerated, it is generally acknowledged that Lynne Cheney played a significant role in her husband’s career and provided him with intellectual and political support. The accuracy of specific scenes involving her is, however, subject to interpretation.
FAQ 10: What are some of the key historical events depicted in Vice?
Key historical events depicted in Vice include: the Iran-Contra affair, the First Gulf War, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the invasion of Afghanistan, the invasion of Iraq, the development of torture techniques, and the expansion of government surveillance programs.
FAQ 11: Where can I watch Vice today?
Availability of Vice on streaming services varies by region and changes frequently. Check services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max (or their respective successor services) for current availability. You can also rent or purchase the film through digital platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
FAQ 12: What is the lasting impact of Dick Cheney’s legacy, according to Vice?
According to Vice, Dick Cheney’s legacy is one of increased executive power, a more militarized foreign policy, and a greater willingness to use controversial tactics in the name of national security. The film suggests that Cheney’s actions have had a profound and lasting impact on American politics and the world, shaping the political landscape for years to come. He is seen as a figure who prioritized pragmatism and achieving desired outcomes, regardless of the moral or ethical implications. Vice implicitly argues that this legacy is ultimately detrimental to American values and democratic principles.