A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night 1983
In *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night (1983)*, artist and filmmaker Martha Rosler dissects the chilling rationalization of torture through the lens of media discourse.
Director: Martha Rosler
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night* (1983) about?
This documentary by Martha Rosler examines how arguments for torture can enter mainstream discourse, using a Newsweek editorial as a case study. The film explores the psychological and societal cost of normalizing extreme measures in times of crisis.
Who directed *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night*?
The film was directed by Martha Rosler, a pioneering artist whose work often critiques media and power structures.
Who stars in *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night*?
The documentary features Martha Rosler alongside Lyn Blumenthal and John Strauss in key roles.
Is *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night* (1983) worth watching?
While it's a niche documentary, its sharp critique of media rhetoric and political compromise makes it relevant for students of social justice and film. Its brevity and direct approach are strengths for a concise, thought-provoking experience.
How long is *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night*?
The runtime is 63 minutes.
A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night (1983): The Media's Dangerous Dance with Justified Cruelty
In *A Simple Case for Torture, or How to Sleep at Night (1983)*, artist and filmmaker Martha Rosler dissects the chilling rationalization of torture through the lens of media discourse. Through sharp, provocative analysis, Rosler unpacks how arguments justifying extreme measures under certain circumstances can creep into mainstream debate, exposing the slippery slope of authoritarian logic.
This unsettling documentary blends archival footage with Rosler's incisive commentary, creating a tense atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. By zeroing in on a Newsweek editorial's flawed reasoning, the film interrogates the moral compromises that erode democratic values. Its compact runtime of 63 minutes packs a punch, making it a compelling watch for fans of socially conscious cinema and political art.