A Film About War, Peace and the Power of Protest

 
 
peace flag at protest
 
 

PREMIERED ON THE PBS AMERICAN EXPERIENCE SERIES

“A fascinating look at an important chapter in 20th century U.S. history and a celebration of activism's power.”

– NATIONAL CATHOLIC REPORTER

 
 

The MOVEMENT and the “MADMAN” shows how two antiwar protests  in the fall of 1969 — the largest the country had ever seen — pressured President Nixon to cancel what he called his “madman” plans for a massive escalation of the U.S. war in Vietnam, including threats to use nuclear weapons.

At the time, protestors had no idea what they had prevented and how many lives they had saved.

Told as a political thriller, the 83-minute film engages viewers in a you-are-there experience with insider accounts from Nixon officials and movement leaders, illustrated with dynamic archival footage and driven by an original score and songs from the 60’s.

Our film is a deeply researched project told by a variety of voices providing multiple perspectives. We conducted 30 in-depth interviews with antiwar movement organizers, members of Congress, historians, and Nixon administration officials, including three men who worked directly with Kissinger on Nixon’s “madman” plans.

It’s an inspiring story that offers hope in a time of new wars and nuclear threats.

 

"Engaging, well-made ... resonates in our own time."

– THE PROGRESSIVE

 
 

Watch the Film

The MOVEMENT and the “MADMAN” premiered as a special presentation of the American Experience PBS series on March 28, 2023. Press coverage and reviews.

Here’s how you can view and own the film now:

For college and university licensing:

Film Screenings

Attend an upcoming film screening or organize your own public event with our film. A variety of groups, colleges, libraries and festivals have booked a screening, some with followup discussions.

Learn more >

 
 
Film Funder Logos
 
 

The film was made possible thanks to the support of these two foundations and over 400 individual donors