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I am not trying to say I'm a genius, but 'Underground' was…

“I am not trying to say I'm a genius, but 'Underground' was the strongest attack there has been on Milosevic. It is about a man who locks his friends in a cellar for 40 years and convinces them that the war is still going on. He uses them, but they still think he is a great guy. And this was shown…” quote by Emir Kusturica
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“I am not trying to say I'm a genius, but 'Underground' was the strongest attack there has been on Milosevic. It is about a man who locks his friends in a cellar for 40 years and convinces them that the war is still going on. He uses them, but they still think he is a great guy. And this was shown in every cinema in Serbia.”

Emir Kusturica

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The film portrays a leader manipulating followers into believing a war persists, illustrating how propaganda sustains power.

In simple terms: A man deceives people into thinking war continues.

Key Takeaway

Question authority and seek truth.

Themes

propaganda leadership war psychological manipulation truth

Mood

critical thought‑provoking somber

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education curricula
  • media literacy programs
  • political activism
  • documentary filmmaking
  • public debates

Key Concepts

political satire psychology media influence historical allegory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does propaganda shape public perception?
  • What mechanisms keep false narratives alive?
A Different Perspective

Audience may interpret the film as purely fictional, missing real‑world parallels.

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