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Deep Dive: The Unknown Known (2013)

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The Unknown Known
The Unknown Known is a documentary about Donald Rumsfeld's political career, particularly his time as U.S. Secretary of Defense. Directed by Errol Morris, the film is based on 33 hours of interviews conducted over eleven sessions in Newton, Massachusetts. It features Rumsfeld discussing various memos he wrote during his tenure, known as 'Yellow Perils' and 'Snowflakes', which cover topics from the aftermath of Watergate to the torture of prisoners at Abu Ghraib. The film also includes Rumsfeld's responses to critical questions, such as the lack of evidence linking Iraq to weapons of mass destruction. Morris captures moments where Rumsfeld appears to lie on camera, and the documentary examines his reluctance to engage in self-reflection. The film is dedicated to Roger Ebert and was released on April 4, 2014, by Radius-TWC.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Donald Rumsfeld, a controversial political figure.
  • •See Rumsfeld discuss his memos on war and defense.
  • •Find out about the torture techniques approved by Rumsfeld.

Did You Know

•The film is based on 33 hours of interviews with Rumsfeld.
•Rumsfeld approved torture techniques for Guantánamo detainees.
•The documentary was released on April 4, 2014.
•Rumsfeld referred to the memos he wrote as 'Yellow Perils' and 'Snowflakes'.

Perfect For

Political history enthusiastsFans of Errol MorrisDocumentary lovers