Art.. Storytelling.. Fascism

[Jan Klimkowski]

Magda - great find.

John and Leni, Pilger and Riefenstahl.

What a fascinating exchange between the reporter who exposes the crimes of totalitarianism, and the artist who turned the philosophy of Nazism into powerful archetypal imagery.

What is modern propaganda? For many, it is the lies of a totalitarian state. In the 1970s, I met Leni Riefenstahl and asked her about her epic films that glorified the Nazis. Using revolutionary camera and lighting techniques, she produced a documentary form that mesmerised Germans; her Triumph of the Will cast Hitler's spell.

She told me that the "messages" of her films were dependent not on "orders from above", but on the "submissive void" of the German public. Did that include the liberal, educated bourgeoisie? "Everyone," she said.
Today, we prefer to believe that there is no submissive void. "Choice" is ubiquitous. Phones are "platforms" that launch every half-thought. There is Google from outer space if you need it. Caressed like rosary beads, the precious devices are borne headsdown, relentlessly monitored and prioritised. Their dominant theme is the self. Me. My needs. Riefenstahl's submissive void is today's digital slavery.
Edward Said described this wired state in Culture and Imperialism as taking imperialism where navies could never reach. It is the ultimate means of social control because it is voluntary, addictive and shrouded in illusions of personal freedom.

The truth is out there.

But the "submissive void" and the "digital slaves" ignore it.

"Propaganda always wins," said Leni Riefenstahl, "if you allow it."

Leni's heirs are making the movies of Hollywood.