The 2008 anti-Hillary Clinton film, “Hillary: The Movie,” was primarily produced in 2007 leading up to its initial broadcast availability in January of 2008, just before crucial early primary contests. Its release and subsequent legal battles surrounding its advertising had a significant impact on the 2008 presidential campaign.
The Genesis of Controversy: Examining the Creation of “Hillary: The Movie”
The film, officially titled “Hillary: The Movie,” wasn’t just a passive piece of political commentary; it was a deliberate attempt to influence the 2008 Presidential election. Understanding its production timeline is crucial for grasping the context surrounding its controversial release and the legal challenges it spawned. The movie was primarily the work of Citizens United, a conservative non-profit organization.
Production Specifics and Key Players
The actual filming and editing likely took place throughout 2007. Considering the length of the film (approximately 90 minutes) and the level of research and interviews involved, it would have been a multi-month endeavor. The key players at Citizens United, including David Bossie and Floyd Brown, were heavily involved in its production. They aimed to create a compelling and critical narrative of Hillary Clinton’s career and political positions. It is worth noting that while Citizens United funded the project, it also used existing clips and information, which minimized production time and cost.
Initial Broadcast and Legal Challenges
The film became available on DVD and online in January 2008, just as the Presidential primary season was heating up. Citizens United planned to air advertisements for the movie on television. This is where the legal complications began, triggering the landmark Supreme Court case, Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. The court ruling effectively allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts on political advertising, provided they did not directly coordinate with a campaign.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into “Hillary: The Movie” and its Impact
This section addresses common questions about the film, its legal battles, and its impact on the political landscape.
FAQ 1: What was the central argument presented in “Hillary: The Movie”?
The film presented a highly critical view of Hillary Clinton’s political career, focusing on what it portrayed as instances of ethical lapses, inconsistencies in her political positions, and her overall suitability for the presidency. It aimed to portray her as a power-hungry and untrustworthy figure. The filmmakers argued that she was unfit to be President.
FAQ 2: Who funded the production of “Hillary: The Movie”?
Citizens United, a politically conservative non-profit organization, funded the production of the film. Their primary mission is to advocate for conservative policies and elect conservative candidates to office. Much of the funding came from private donations received by the organization.
FAQ 3: What was the significance of the Citizens United v. FEC Supreme Court case?
The Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission case dramatically changed campaign finance laws in the United States. The Supreme Court ruled that corporations and unions have the same First Amendment rights as individuals, allowing them to spend unlimited amounts of money on political advertising. This ruling significantly impacted subsequent elections, including the 2012 election and beyond.
FAQ 4: How did the Federal Election Commission (FEC) become involved?
The FEC argued that “Hillary: The Movie” was an illegal campaign advertisement because it was financed by corporate funds and aired close to a primary election. This triggered the legal battle that ultimately reached the Supreme Court. The FEC asserted that Citizens United was violating campaign finance regulations aimed at preventing undue corporate influence in elections.
FAQ 5: What were the arguments presented by Citizens United in their defense?
Citizens United argued that restricting the advertising of “Hillary: The Movie” violated their First Amendment rights to freedom of speech. They maintained that the film was a form of political commentary and should not be subject to campaign finance regulations. They claimed they were exercising their right to express their opinions about a political candidate.
FAQ 6: Did the film influence the 2008 Presidential election?
It is difficult to quantify the precise impact of “Hillary: The Movie” on the 2008 election. However, it undoubtedly contributed to the negative portrayal of Hillary Clinton, particularly among conservative voters. It also served as a rallying point for conservative activists and donors. The film fueled debate and further divided opinions about Clinton.
FAQ 7: Where can I watch “Hillary: The Movie” today?
“Hillary: The Movie” is widely available online through various platforms, including YouTube and other video streaming services. DVDs are also available from certain online retailers.
FAQ 8: Was “Hillary: The Movie” the first anti-Hillary Clinton film?
No, “Hillary: The Movie” was not the first anti-Hillary Clinton film. Several other documentaries and films had been produced prior to 2008 that were critical of Hillary Clinton’s career and political positions. However, the Citizens United case made this film particularly noteworthy.
FAQ 9: How did the Democratic Party respond to “Hillary: The Movie”?
The Democratic Party largely condemned the film as a partisan attack and criticized the Supreme Court’s decision in the Citizens United case. They argued that the ruling would allow corporations and wealthy individuals to exert undue influence on elections.
FAQ 10: What were the long-term consequences of the Citizens United ruling?
The Citizens United ruling has had far-reaching consequences for campaign finance in the United States. It has led to the rise of Super PACs and other independent expenditure groups, which can spend unlimited amounts of money to support or oppose candidates. This has significantly increased the role of money in politics.
FAQ 11: Who were some of the individuals interviewed for “Hillary: The Movie”?
While a comprehensive list of all interviewees is difficult to assemble, the film featured interviews with political commentators, journalists, and individuals who had worked with or against Hillary Clinton throughout her career. The individuals selected were often those with critical viewpoints on Clinton.
FAQ 12: What is the legacy of “Hillary: The Movie” and the Citizens United case?
The legacy of “Hillary: The Movie” is intertwined with the legacy of the Citizens United case. Both have become symbols of the ongoing debate over campaign finance and the role of money in politics. The film itself is a reminder of the increasingly polarized political landscape and the power of partisan media. The Citizens United decision continues to be a subject of intense debate and legal challenges.