Man, were they naïve in 1957.
Or, too hopeful.
As depicted in this still-powerful film, people back then apparently believed that if a sweet-talkin’, truth-abusing con man really told the American people how much he hated them, that his career and ill-gotten gains would vanish overnight.
Today, we know better.
Find enough idiots, and it won’t matter how many times you vent your spleen in front of a microphone — idiots will still believe the lie.
Give director Elia Kazan and star Andy Griffith (playing against type) credit — they made a mesmerizing fantasy.
Too bad real life doesn’t always reflect their faith.
