Why We Fight: Prelude to War
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65% Critic Match

Why We Fight: Prelude to War

The US government puts the finger on the United Nations' enemies

6.5 / 10 1942 53mNR English
DocumentaryWar

Storyline

Prelude to War was the first film of Frank Capra's Why We Fight propaganda film series, commissioned by the Pentagon and George C. Marshall. It was made to convince American troops of the necessity of combating the Axis Powers during World War II. This film examines the differences between democratic and fascist states.

Cast & Crew

Walter Huston

Walter Huston

Self - Narrator (voice)

Lead
Max Schmeling

Max Schmeling

Self - German paratrooper (archive footage)

Adolf Hitler

Adolf Hitler

Self

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Frank Capra's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
3.0
Every frame feels alive. Why We Fight: Prelude to War is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker