A Bit Mr Churchill's Way [extracts], Pacific Films 1974
A promotional film about Robert Muldoon, made in the year leading up to the 1975 election. Muldoon is seen addressing a public meeting, where the crowd give him an enthusiastic reception. Issues are discussed like: Muldoon’s leadership style, humour in politics, the superannuation scheme, the Labour Government. The set-up of this piece is interesting. Not many political promotional films would include negative voices on its subject. However, it's noticeable that the people used to picture the negative response are generally long-haired, young, and feeding the whole argument that this good old boy is a straight talking tough guy, complete with the common touch, who will lead us into the future with surety. If one definition of oratory is the embellishment of particular view, then it's important to understand how modern spin doctors organise the packaging of words and images.
Discussion Points
- Muldoon portrayed from two angles – the tough, no-nonsense political leader; and the family man who likes a beer and a bit of a laugh and a walk along the beach with his wife.
- Military music (very American!) as he approaches the stage helps emphasise this image of a tough man.
- Speaks directly to hecklers, showing he can think on his feet and isn’t afraid to directly address members of the audience.
- "…whether or not this country has got as Prime Minister a man who is a leader" – Muldoon is obviously suggesting the PM isn’t but he is.
- His strength is again emphasised when he says he isn’t afraid to make enemies – he’ll stand up for what he believes in, whether it makes him unpopular or not.
- The classic politician line – "They couldn’t deliver what they had promised." Have any of them?
- "He used to be Member for Tamaki" – that’s Muldoon’s ‘seat’ now: an "I’ve beaten him once, I can do it again" argument?
- "I’m a competitor."
- Personal pronouns – "I think it would be a great thing…I think it would do us a lot of good."
- "He’s in control," says a member of the public, "…in control." The “orator” has hit his target!
