Bombs Away: LBJ, Goldwater and the 1964 Campaign That Changed It All
Bombs Away: LBJ, Goldwater and the 1964 Campaign That Changed It All

Movie spotlight

Bombs Away: LBJ, Goldwater and the 1964 Campaign That Changed It All

2014
Movie
56 min
English

The political ad "Peace Little Girl" aired during the 1964 presidential campaign ushered in a new era of the television attack ad. The campaign also reshaped the American political landscape in other significant ways ultimately ending up with the establishment of the contemporary geopolitical map of red and blue states. Includes interviews with historians and participants in the campaign.

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Director: Richard PerleGenres: Documentary, History, Politics

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the pivotal 1964 US Presidential election, a contest that saw incumbent Lyndon B. Johnson face off against Republican challenger Barry Goldwater. It explores the contrasting ideologies, the significant political strategies employed, and the profound impact this election had on the trajectory of American politics and society. The film highlights how LBJ utilized Goldwater's perceived extremism to secure a landslide victory, effectively reshaping the political landscape for decades to come.

Critical Reception

While specific widespread critical reviews for this particular documentary are scarce, films focusing on this era of American political history and the 1964 election are generally well-received for their educational value and insightful analysis of a transformative period. Documentaries of this nature often appeal to history buffs and those interested in political science, highlighting the enduring relevance of the campaign's themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its comprehensive overview of a critical election.

  • Appreciated for its historical context and analysis of the campaign's lasting impact.

  • Seen as an important educational resource on 20th-century American political history.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific title is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The famous 'Daisy' advertisement, which aired only once during the 1964 campaign, is widely considered one of the most effective and controversial political ads in American history, playing a significant role in shaping public perception of Barry Goldwater and contributing to Lyndon B. Johnson's landslide victory.

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