Wag the Dog Poster

Wag the Dog 1997

★ 6.91,042 votes97 min📅 1997-12-25

"A comedy about truth, justice and other special effects."

Wag the Dog, directed by Barry Levinson, is a dark comedy that skillfully blends drama, satire, and politics. Set against the backdrop of a presidential election, the film revolves around a desperate move by the President's adviser to create a diversion by staging a fake war.

Director: Barry Levinson

Cast

Dustin Hoffman
Dustin Hoffman
Stanley Motss
Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro
Conrad Brean
Anne Heche
Anne Heche
Winifred Ames
Woody Harrelson
Woody Harrelson
Sergeant William Schumann
Denis Leary
Denis Leary
Fad King
Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson
Johnny Dean
Andrea Martin
Andrea Martin
Liz Butsky
Kirsten Dunst
Kirsten Dunst
Tracy Lime
William H. Macy
William H. Macy
CIA Agent Charles Young
David Koechner
David Koechner
Director

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wag the Dog (1997) about?

This dark comedy tells the story of a presidential adviser who stages a fake war to distract the public from a scandal, and the Hollywood producer who helps him create a diversion.

Who directed Wag the Dog?

Wag the Dog was directed by Barry Levinson, a seasoned filmmaker known for his sharp wit and social commentary.

Who stars in Wag the Dog?

The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Dustin Hoffman, Robert De Niro, and Anne Heche.

Is Wag the Dog (1997) worth watching?

With its unique blend of humor and pathos, Wag the Dog is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences, making it a must-watch for fans of comedy and drama.

How long is Wag the Dog?

Wag the Dog has a runtime of 97 minutes, making it a quick and engaging watch.

🎥 Trailer

About Wag the Dog (1997) — A Dark Comedy that Exposes the Blurred Lines of Truth and Reality

Wag the Dog, directed by Barry Levinson, is a dark comedy that skillfully blends drama, satire, and politics. Set against the backdrop of a presidential election, the film revolves around a desperate move by the President's adviser to create a diversion by staging a fake war. With the help of a Hollywood producer, a fictional conflict is fabricated to shift the nation's attention away from the President's scandal. The result is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the blurred lines between truth and reality. As the story unfolds, the characters' true intentions are slowly revealed, making for a thrilling ride. With a talented ensemble cast, including Dustin Hoffman, Robert De Niro, and Anne Heche, Wag the Dog is a must-watch for fans of comedy, drama, and politics. The film's sharp commentary on the nature of power, corruption, and media manipulation raises important questions about the state of our world. As the final minutes tick away, the audience is left wondering what is real and what is just a cleverly crafted illusion. With its unique blend of humor and pathos, Wag the Dog is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

The film's use of satire and social commentary makes it a clever critique of our society's obsession with politics and media. The tension builds as the characters navigate the complexities of their plan, all while staying one step ahead of the truth. With its talented cast and sharp direction, Wag the Dog is a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you thinking long after the credits roll.

Wag the Dog (1997) is a masterclass in storytelling, as the writer and director cleverly weave together a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The film's exploration of the human condition, with all its flaws and imperfections, is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and compassion. As the characters navigate the treacherous waters of politics and power, they are forced to confront their own moral compasses and the consequences of their actions.