Wag the Dog on France 5: a fake war to save an election

A political crisis is handled like a Hollywood production in Wag the Dog, airing on France 5. Barry Levinson brings together Robert De Niro, Dustin Hoffman and Anne Heche for an entirely fabricated disinformation campaign.

As the US presidential election approaches, a scandal threatens the incumbent candidate. Conrad Brean, a communications strategist, is tasked with diverting attention. Alongside film producer Stanley Motss, he invents a war in Albania and the footage meant to prove it.

Hilary Henkin and David Mamet wrote the screenplay based on a novel by Larry Beinhart, published in French under the title Reality Show. The film combines the inner workings of power with the mechanics of putting on a show, with Woody Harrelson, Denis Leary and Willie Nelson in supporting roles.

• To be read
• Top cinemas in Paris

For more, check out our selection of films, series and shows to watch on TV this week, our guide to new releases across all platforms, and today’s picks in What to watch streaming today.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.