After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A documentary where everyone argues about what’s real, proving that maybe the ‘truth’ was just a social construct all along, especially if it involves pizza and secret basements.

🍿 After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Rise of Disinformation and Its Impact

This documentary explores the alarming phenomenon of disinformation, often referred to as ‘fake news,’ focusing on its profound real-life consequences within the United States. It specifically examines the period from 2015 onwards, highlighting how false narratives and conspiracy theories have become increasingly prevalent in the American political landscape. The film illustrates how modern technology and social media platforms have facilitated the rapid and widespread dissemination of untruths. Anyone with internet access can now become a purveyor of information, often without the traditional gatekeepers of oversight or accountability. This environment allows politically motivated actors, particularly from the alt-right, to intentionally craft and spread falsehoods.

Case Studies: The Devastating Human Cost

Through a series of high-profile political disinformation campaigns, ‘After Truth’ reveals the devastating impact on innocent individuals. The film delves into cases such as ‘Jade Helm 15,’ ‘Pizzagate,’ the death of Seth Rich, and attempts to smear Robert Mueller. These examples demonstrate how individuals and communities, sometimes those already marginalized, become ‘collateral damage’ in these campaigns. The documentary features interviews with various journalists, political operatives, and real-life victims, providing a firsthand look at the distress and disruption caused by targeted misinformation.

The Perpetrators and the Challenge of Combatting Lies

The film profiles well-known American figures involved in perpetrating disinformation, examining their motives and methods. It questions the role of social media platforms, many of which were designed without considering the potential for widespread misinformation, and how they grapple with controlling its spread. ‘After Truth’ ultimately poses a critical question: How can society effectively combat disinformation? It explores the challenges of balancing free speech with the need to protect the truth, highlighting the inherent difficulties in eradicating fabricated narratives once they take hold.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jack Burkman (Jack Burkman): A political operative who discusses and demonstrates the cynical use of disinformation as a weapon for political gain.
• Elizabeth Williamson (Elizabeth Williamson): A New York Times journalist who meticulously reports on the real-life human costs and consequences of widespread disinformation.
• Molly McKew (Molly McKew): A Georgetown University disinformation expert who offers analytical insight into the mechanisms and impact of false narratives.
• James Alefantis (James Alefantis): The owner of Comet Ping Pong, who became a prominent victim of the dangerous and baseless Pizzagate conspiracy theory.
• Oliver Darcy (Oliver Darcy): A CNN reporter who observes and comments on the role of mainstream media in navigating and combating the proliferation of fake news.
• Craig Silverman (Craig Silverman): A Buzzfeed editor and journalist who tracks and analyzes the spread of online disinformation and misinformation.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Self – Berkman Klein Center, Harvard University: “Mainstream media needs to understand that it is operating in a propaganda-rich environment. There are no two realities. There is an intentional deception on one side, and there is an honest if imperfect process of trying to get as near to the truth as we can on the other.” – This quote articulates the core distinction between intentional disinformation and the earnest pursuit of truth, framing the film’s central conflict.
• Jack Burkman: “it’s there to use, it doesn’t mean I like it.” – Said by a political operative in the film who cynically views ‘fake news’ as a tool for political warfare, similar to chemical weapons.
• Doug Jones: “Two wrongs don’t make it right.” – Offered by Senator Doug Jones when discussing the ethical dilemma of whether those fighting disinformation should engage in similar tactics to gain an advantage.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News Reviews

Personal Review

I went into ‘After Truth’ expecting a dry, academic take on fake news, but wow, it hit differently. The segments focusing on the human impact, like the Comet Ping Pong pizzeria owner, were absolutely gut-wrenching. I found myself feeling this profound sense of frustration and sadness knowing that people’s lives were genuinely upended by these baseless, malicious lies. It really opened my eyes to how easily a story can escalate from a fringe online forum to something that motivates real-world violence. The way it showcased the deliberate *creation* of disinformation, not just accidental mistakes, was truly disturbing. It made me think so much more critically about every piece of information I consume online.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Viewers interested in current events and American politics”
  • “Anyone concerned about media literacy and critical thinking”
  • “Fans of investigative documentaries on social issues”
  • “Individuals curious about the origins and impacts of conspiracy theories”
  • “Students of journalism, sociology, and political science”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Discussions of sensitive political topics and partisan conflict”
  • “Exploration of controversial conspiracy theories (e.g., Pizzagate)”
  • “Depiction of real-world harm and threats resulting from disinformation”
  • “Some strong language (implied by the subject matter)”

Professional Reviews

• ReelInsights: “After Truth powerfully dissects the insidious nature of disinformation, exposing how manufactured narratives wreak havoc on individual lives and civic discourse. Director Andrew Rossi crafts a chillingly relevant portrait, showcasing the devastating real-world consequences of online falsehoods. It’s a crucial film that compels viewers to scrutinize their news sources and recognize the perilous landscape of contemporary media.
• The Documentary Review: “This documentary plunges deep into the murky waters of fake news, presenting a compelling, albeit at times uncomfortable, examination of its origins and impact. While its focus remains pointed, ‘After Truth’ initiates vital conversations about media literacy and the vulnerability of public perception in the digital age. It’s a necessary watch for anyone grappling with the modern information crisis.

Audience Reactions

Viewers were particularly disturbed by the direct human cost shown, especially the ‘Pizzagate’ segment.: Its portrayal of the deliberate creation and spread of lies prompted many to advocate for greater media literacy.

The film sparked intense debate among audiences about media bias, with some finding it a crucial exposé and others labeling it propaganda.: There was broad agreement that the film highlights the alarming scale of disinformation’s threat to society.

Overall Consensus: A polarizing yet impactful documentary that serves as a stark warning about the real-world dangers and human cost of disinformation, prompting urgent conversations about media literacy and accountability.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Two of the individuals featured in the documentary for perpetrating and spreading disinformation, Jacob Wohl and Jack Burkman, were later charged by the Michigan Attorney General in October 2020 for allegedly operating a voter suppression campaign involving robocalls, occurring after the film’s events but involving central figures.”
• “The film was produced by HBO Documentary Films, reflecting its commitment to exploring contemporary social and political issues.”
• “Director Andrew Rossi focuses on specific, high-profile disinformation campaigns from 2015 onwards, including Pizzagate and the smearing of Robert Mueller.”

🖥️ How to Watch After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News?

The documentary ‘After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News’ premiered on HBO and is typically available for streaming on Max (formerly HBO Max). It may also be available for digital purchase or rental on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and other VOD services, subject to regional availability. Always check your preferred streaming provider for the most current viewing options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News, you might like these similar films:

• The Social Dilemma (2020): Explores how social media algorithms exacerbate the spread of disinformation and its profound societal impact, making it a direct complement to ‘After Truth’.
• The Antisocial Network: Memes to Mayhem (2024): Directly related to the film’s themes, this documentary investigates the origins of internet hate movements like QAnon and their real-world consequences, mirroring the focus on online radicalization and disinformation.
• Wag the Dog (1997): This fictional dark comedy satirizes the manufacturing of public perception and political manipulation through media, resonating with the ‘cost of fake news’ theme.
• All the President’s Men (1976): A classic about investigative journalism uncovering a major political scandal, highlighting the essential role of truth-seeking and exposing deception in a democracy.
• Get Me Roger Stone (2017): This documentary profiles a political operative known for his controversial and often deceptive tactics, providing a real-world look at the kind of figures discussed in ‘After Truth’.

🛒 After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News Related Products

• Calling Bullshit: The Art of Skepticism in a Data-Driven World: This insightful book provides essential tools and strategies for navigating the overwhelming deluge of information, teaching readers how to spot logical fallacies, statistical manipulation, and outright falsehoods.
• The Social Dilemma (DVD/Blu-ray): Explore the darker side of social media with this acclaimed documentary that delves into how tech companies manipulate users and the societal impact of their algorithms. A perfect companion to ‘After Truth’ for a deeper dive into online information ecosystems.
• Critical Thinking Skills – Decision Making & Problem Solving Journal: A practical workbook designed to help users develop and hone their critical thinking abilities, offering exercises and prompts for analyzing information and making informed decisions.
• ‘Truth Seeker’ Art Print – Distorted Headlines: An abstract art print capturing the chaotic essence of modern media and the quest for truth amidst a sea of distorted headlines, ideal for sparking conversation.

🎧 Soundtrack

After Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake News features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Theme” – performed by James William Bladon
• “The Cost of Lies” – performed by James William Bladon
• “Digital Echoes” – performed by James William Bladon
• “Unraveling the Truth” – performed by James William Bladon

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

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