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not everything, but something

I just watched "Rethink Afghanistan."
I definitely think ec has a lot of valid criticism.
My main critique of the film is a basic lack of analysis over how the occupation began and why we're actually there. To know how to get out, we need a solid analysis that includes which forces are really holding our military there.
Clearly the film could have been more radical -- it could have been an indictment on US militarism and imperialism, it could have condemned the "war on terrorism" much more broadly.
However, I don't think Greenwald saw this film as broad political education - but rather a targeted message that we need to get US troops out of Afghanistan and Pakistan for the good of Afghanistan, Pakistan, women under occupation, US troops, long-term US interests and global stability. I think it is a useful tool for making that argument to a wide range of people in the US.
As for the NGO and think tank talking heads? Regardless of a valid critique of their structures broadly, they add credibility to the film for a less radical audiences....and it isn't necessarily the radicals that need to be convinced.
So, do I think the movie was politically right-on? No
Do I think it covers everything it should have? No
But I definitely see it as a useful tool making its point to a broad range of people. Its certainly better when it leads to discussion, and hopefully its doing that in communities across the US.

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