So Goes the Nation

So Goes the Nation is a captivating political documentary released in 2006 featuring prominent political figures such as George W. Bush, John Kerry, and Ed Gillespie. The film provides a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies and principles driving American politics, and it does so with a unique emphasis on the 2004 U.S. Presidential election.

This engrossing documentary is not just a dramatic narrative about an election; it provides a profound exploration of American democracy. Directed by the creative duo of James D. Stern and Adam Del Deo, the film provides insight into political campaigns and contrasting perspectives from both sides of the aisle. It presents insightful peeks behind the proverbial political curtain to help audiences comprehend what goes into shaping public opinion, rallying supporters, and winning elections.

The film begins with an overview of the crucial state of Ohio's political landscape, which, in the 2004 Presidential election, was undoubtedly the most hotly contested battleground. The producers explore the significance of demographics, socio-political beliefs, and regional affiliations in determining the voting trends of Ohioans. While the focus on Ohio is unwavering, So Goes the Nation necessarily broadens its purview to examine the wider national impact.

Another unique note about the film is its decision to present the perspectives of not only the political heavyweights, which include incumbent President George W. Bush and challenging candidate Senator John Kerry, but also the campaign strategists, voters, and volunteers on the ground. Ed Gillespie, a Republican operative and significant influence in party strategy, is testament to this multi-perspective approach. The film ensures to represent both Republican and Democratic factions, with insights into their respective campaign strategies and ideological contentions, offering viewers a balanced viewpoint.

In exploring the diverse narrations of essential personalities, So Goes the Nation excellently weaves a tapestry of the American political world. It delves into how intricate strategies are formed and manipulated. From tracking the intense push to mobilize voters, the usage of ‘opposition research’ to dig up dirt on opponents, to the management of media to influence public opinion, the film tirelessly ventures to provide a holistic view of the real, often hidden, world of politics.

The influence of critical election issues, such as the Iraq war, unemployment, and healthcare, is another key focus of the film. It portrays how these significant issues can be employed in campaigns to sway voters' decisions. Throughout the film, it becomes evident how much the personal becomes political during the intricate process of the election, and how election issues can significantly affect the lives of the average American.

The film also sparks a reflection on the implications of political propaganda and the role of political advertisements in defining the candidates' public image. From negative advertisements to attack the opposition to the use of public relations spins, it covers the complex dynamic between fact and perception in creating a political narrative.

So Goes the Nation is not just about political strategy; it's about people - the strategists who plan, the volunteers who rally, and ultimately, the voters who decide. By capturing input from these different narratives, the film provides a humanized perspective on the intimidating world of politics.

The unbiased story-telling and fair representation of the film, along with its exploration of political strategy, ideology, and grass-root perspectives, make So Goes the Nation a must-watch. This documentary is of much value for those interested in comprehending the political culture of the United States, the complexity of its democratic process, or the underbelly of political campaigns. Regardless of one’s political orientation, the film is informative, revealing, and an invaluable guide to the intriguing world of American politics.