Active Measures

Active Measures is a gripping and powerful documentary film that examines the complex and disturbing relationship between the Russian government and President Donald Trump's election campaign in 2016. The film explores the ways in which Russia has utilized covert tactics, propaganda, and cyber warfare in order to influence the political landscape of the United States and other Western nations.

Directed by Jack Bryan, Active Measures features extensive interviews with experts and insiders, including CIA analyst Jeremy Bash, journalist Nina Burleigh, and former advisor to President Trump, Steve Bannon, as well as Putin himself. What emerges is a chilling portrait of a Russian regime that is deeply invested in destabilizing democratic institutions around the world, and a U.S. government struggling to respond.

One of the film's key strengths is its use of archival footage and detailed analysis of events leading up to the 2016 election. We see how Russian hackers targeted the Democratic National Committee and other political organizations, how they used social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to spread misinformation and sow discord, and how they coordinated with affiliated organizations and individuals to amplify their impact.

But Active Measures also goes beyond the immediate context of the 2016 election to examine the broader history of Russian influence in the West. We see how Putin's rise to power after the fall of the Soviet Union created opportunities for corruption, violence, and manipulation, as well as how Russia's strategic interests have played out in conflicts like the war in Syria.

Throughout the film, Bryan uses a wide range of visual and narrative techniques to keep the audience engaged and to make the material accessible. There are poignant interviews with survivors of tragedies like the downing of MH17 over Ukraine, compelling animations that illustrate key concepts, and haunting scores that underscore the gravity of the situation.

Most importantly, however, Active Measures provides a vital service in its ability to educate audiences about the ways in which foreign governments can undermine democracy and democratic institutions. This is particularly important given the ongoing controversy surrounding Russian interference in the 2016 election as well as the increasingly frequent accusations of interference from other sources, such as China.

Overall, Active Measures is a powerful and insightful look at an issue of global significance. It provides valuable context and analysis for those seeking to understand the complex web of influence and power politics that shape our world today, and should be required viewing for anyone interested in politics, foreign policy, or the future of democracy.