Review of Merchants of Doubt (2014) by Jeetkunedo J — 03 Apr 2015

Let me just say that this movie has a pretty bad and unfocused trailer. I saw the preview for this twice before some other movies and I had no idea what this was meant to be about. Merchants of Doubt doesn't quite have that issue; it's a solid, engaging, and entertaining documentary.

It isn't the most consistent feature I've seen, but it is consistently interesting with strong production values. What I enjoy about this documentary is that it openly shares its own views without feeling the need to hide them in order to come off as more accessible--for the most part.

The movie itself does a very good job setting up its arguments and showcases how propaganda has to do more with one's ego and fear of change than true opinions. Those interviewed are from diverse enough backgrounds to expand the film's credibility without undermining its arguments, and it's much more refreshing than other things that discuss political issues.

However, the movie starts off with the more apolitical subject of cigarettes and finds a way to shoehorn a link to climate change. The filmmakers' intentions are visible but not as strong as possible, and it sometimes feels a bit disjointed as it switches between subjects in attempt to draw parallels between different things.

What I do appreciate is that while this documentary has an agenda, it's more about propaganda as a whole. Like they say in the movie, you may not like something if it doesn't tell you what you want to here, but it presents itself nicely and in a civilized manner.

That's an accomplishment in itself. 7.8/10, solid, one thumb up, above average, etc.