Fewer recent documentary films evince a bigger gap between potential level of intrigue and delivered interest than Programming the Nation, a shaggy look at the history of subliminal messaging in the United States that leaves one wanting for the pruning of a sensible editor. Flitting back and forth from 1950s and ’60s cinema and advertising to the alleged usage of subliminal tactics in everything from anti-theft devices, political propaganda, military psychological operations and advanced weapons development, Warrick’s film is interesting in pieces and patches, but ultimately done in by its own manic desire to cram in as much anecdotal detail as possible, no matter its big-picture relevance. It’s the nonfiction equivalent of an excited teenager relating to a parent the story of an important event in their world, and what it individually means for all of their friends. For the full, original review, from ShockYa, click here. For more information on the movie, meanwhile, click here. (International Film Circuit, unrated, 105 minutes)
