As someone who has dedicated my life to understanding human behavior and the societal factors that influence it, I found “The Killing of America” to be a profoundly chilling yet enlightening documentary. Having lived through much of the tumultuous period depicted in the film, I can attest to the sense of desperation and violence that seemed to permeate American society during those years.
A noteworthy aspect regarding how violence is portrayed in movies lies within the balance between entertainment and authenticity. True crime has been a part of both these domains, especially in films that construct a fictional reality grounded in factual events and documentaries that provide an unblinking view of our world. The former category can be seen in the 1981 documentary film, “The Killing of America“. This movie delves deep into violence and mortality with a raw and analytical storyline. “The Killing of America” guides viewers through a descent of deterioration, exploring the surge in violent crime and unrest that has marked American life since the post-war economic prosperity of the 1950s and ’60s.
Following closely on the heels of the mondo film ‘Faces of Death,’ ‘The Killing of America’ stands as a stark contrast to sensationalism and shock value. Similar to many films popular during the mondo trend, ‘The Killing of America’ is constructed from a series of connected vignettes narrated throughout, but what sets it apart is its comprehensive portrayal of escalating violence and its effects on diverse societal groups. As Nietzsche might say, ‘The Killing of America’ offers an unfiltered, unbridled look into the depths of violence, a gaze that reflects back upon its viewers.
Unrest and Assassination
Exploring numerous elements of 1970s pop culture, there’s a certain romanticized longing for the 1950s and ’60s. Shows like “Happy Days” and movies such as “American Graffiti” were portrayed in a manner reminiscent of Norman Rockwell paintings, encapsulating the idyllic simplicity often associated with the American dream. However, upon closer examination, this image was largely an illusion, as crimes like those committed by Charles Starkweather and Ed Gein were occurring simultaneously. The documentary “The Killing of America” initiates its discussion on the development of violence by focusing on the assassination of John F. Kennedy, depicting it as a pivotal event that set in motion the decline and decay that pervades the film throughout.
Moreover, the killings of Robert F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. symbolize the aspirations that various generations had for new leaders, but unfortunately saw these hopes dashed by others prematurely. The optimism for a better future contrasted sharply with the escalating social turmoil during that era. This period was marked by ongoing battles for equality within the civil rights movement and the growing discontent among the public regarding America’s role in the Vietnam War conflict.
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but notice the profound impact the Vietnam War had on American popular culture, particularly in cinema. In my opinion, the raw, unfiltered images of war that filled our television screens from the conflict in Vietnam served as a turning point, reshaping the narrative landscape of films to come. This is evident in many horror movies, such as Halloween and The Last House on the Left, where the once-peaceful suburbs of America become hauntingly invaded by violence.
The film “America Under Siege” focuses on significant events to offer insights into the surge of gun possession, a contentious issue still relevant today. By portraying street crime and offering an unvarnished view of decay and urban deterioration, it establishes a connection between global and domestic violence. These factors contribute to the emergence of serial killings and violence that can be found in both extreme outskirts and modern society.>
Mad Saviors and the Faces of Evil
It’s worth noting that while serial murderers, as portrayed in “The Killing of America” as “mad saviors,” commit horrific and inhumane acts, they are still ordinary people. The term “mad saviors” refers to two types of crimes that arose from the counterculture movement, which was seeking answers to a world that appeared to be spiraling out of control into chaos and despair.
Two instances that “The Killing of America” terms as the atrocities of these “self-proclaimed saviors” are the murders carried out by the disciples of Charles Manson and the mass suicide of more than 900 devotees of Jim Jones in Guyana. Both incidents, characterized by a charismatic leader exerting control over followers and causing numerous deaths, represent a time when many were seeking answers and solutions to the escalating chaos of that era. These instances, which sparked widespread public interest, an interest that remains strong today, illustrate the enduring fascination with true crime and groups influenced by charismatic leadership.
The documentary titled “The Killing of America” was produced during a time when serial killers were becoming increasingly prevalent. This film spends a substantial portion focusing on notable cases that left the nation in shock, including the atrocities committed by David Berkowitz and John Wayne Gacy. Notably, it delves deep into the murders and courtroom dramas surrounding Ted Bundy. Bundy’s captivating persona and allure, coupled with the heinous acts he committed, illustrate the unsettling duality often found in serial killers: individuals who appear ordinary but are capable of unspeakable horrors. An open conversation is featured with Edmund Kemper, whose eloquent demeanor and intelligence exemplify the “mask of sanity” that many of these perpetrators wear.
Sensationalism Through Mass Media
In “The Killing of America,” as it’s entirely based on archival footage and photography, it seems to offer more than just a critique of the increasing violence in America. Instead, it appears to be making a statement about news programs that often show street violence to cater to the public’s appetite for sensationalized content, which is fueled by the constant influx of such footage from various media sources.
A specific instance that seems to embody this commentary most vividly is the story of James Hoskins. Hoskins, who seized control of a news station and requested an interview, frequently expressed his belief that the media only focused on reporting about his neighborhood when crimes were committed. Inciting a standoff with the police and denouncing politicians Reagan and Carter as “the same old bull,” it’s a chilling account that underscores the high level of discontent arising from America’s perceived downfall.
In this situation, we could rephrase it as follows: “Hoskins’ actions at the station were extreme and tragic,” illustrating a community under immense pressure, where violence has become commonplace due to its frequent occurrence and exaggerated depiction by the media.
A Reflection of the World We Exist in
Documentaries, especially those made some time ago, can occasionally be seen as relics of their era or a peek into history. However, the impact of a film like “The Killing of America” is not one that fades easily; it provokes viewers with an unsettling urgency and serves as a grim reminder that violence continues to plague the human condition. The ominous tension portrayed in “The Killing of America” still echoes in our modern world. Films such as these function like mirrors, reflecting our reality, and sometimes the image we see is more horrifying than we care to acknowledge.
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2024-11-08 03:32