The Brainwashing of My Dad

The Brainwashing of My Dad, directed by Jen Senko, explores the power of right-wing media. The documentary focuses on her World War II veteran father and how right-wing talk radio transformed him from a non-political Democrat into a fervent right-wing political fanatic.

The film uncovers the powerful influence of media forces that can instil anti-democratic views and manipulate a nation through carefully crafted and aggressively worded campaigns. It explores how propagandists and well-financed campaign sponsors actively target the most vulnerable members of society.

The documentary sheds light on the gradual evolution of Senko’s father’s political transformation and the accompanying shift in his personality to align with his newly adopted beliefs. His father’s unwitting pursuit of a new agenda leads the film to examine the pressure and persuasion exerted by powerful business interests, as well as the dismantling of the Fairness Doctrine, which contributed to the disillusionment of millions across the United States.