Watch Horns and Halos

Horns and Halos is a 2002 documentary film directed by Suki Hawley and Michael Galinsky, that takes an in-depth look at Daniel John Ford Padilla, a small-time publisher in New York City, who purchased the rights of a controversial book about President George W. Bush during his 2000 presidential campaign. The film follows Padilla as he attempts to publish the book 'Fortunate Son', a critical expose on the president's past drug use and alleged desertion from the National Guard during the Vietnam War. The book was written by J.H. Hatfield, a Dallas-based freelance author, who was later accused of fabricating his credentials and being involved in an insurance-scam.

While Hatfield's credibility was questioned and his book was surrounded by controversy, Padilla invested all his savings in its publication, believing in his right to disseminate information critical of public figures, and the freedom of speech.

The documentary uses interviews with Padilla, Hatfield, and prominent figures of both sides of the political spectrum to provide insight into the complex world of media, politics, and activism.

The film further explores the relationship between Hatfield and Padilla, both of whom were eccentric and controversial figures, haunted by their past transgressions.

The movie challenges the traditional power dynamic of media and politics, as Padilla becomes a target of corporate media and political pressure, with his motives and credibility being questioned.

Horns and Halos is a timely examination of the role of media in society and the limits of its freedom as a public watchdog. The film provides a compelling insight into free speech and the right to dissent, especially in an era of increasing media consolidation and corporate influence.

Throughout the film, the audience is presented with a compelling narrative that highlights the impact of the book and the reaction it provoked from various players in the political game. The documentary explores themes of accountability, transparency, and the role of journalists as truth-seekers and purveyors of information.

Overall, Horns and Halos is an engrossing documentary that is essential viewing for anyone interested in media, politics, and power. The film is well-crafted and thought-provoking, with a compelling cast of characters that provide insight into the complexity of the issues presented.

Horns and Halos is a 2002 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 69.