Actors are stepping into the realm of social media as the White House puts out foreign policy promotion videos.
There’s been a backlash from actors who’ve asked for the removal of these videos featuring clips from popular films like “Top Gun,” “Iron Man,” “Breaking Bad,” “Deadpool,” and “Gladiator.”
“I urge whoever made this troubling youth war propaganda to take down my voice immediately,” one actor stated.
Initially, writer and actor Ben Stiller voiced his concerns over a snippet from his movie “Tropic Thunder” being used in this mix. He commented, “We have never given you permission and we have no desire to be part of your propaganda.”
He added, “War is not a movie.”
system of a downs
Steve Downs, the voice behind Master Chief in the “Halo” video game series, expressed stronger objections. He indicated that there’s “at least one propaganda video” utilizing his voice to support the Iran conflict.
“To clarify, I did not create this video, nor was I consulted, and I do not support the use of my voice in it or its message,” Downs remarked. He reiterated his demand for the removal of his voice from what he deemed “disgusting youth war porn.”
music reaches his ears
Another “Halo” figure, original score composer and Congressional candidate Marty O’Donnell, had a different take.
“Unlike Ben, I’m totally okay with using music in shows like this. [Let’s end this]! End the fight!” O’Donnell stated.
He also referred to Stiller as a “sensitive artist,” while at the same time signaling his approval of the video.
fair use
The individuals affected seem to be learning about the nuances of fair use on social media. Platforms like X and YouTube typically allow brief segments of copyrighted materials for commentary, as long as it doesn’t hinder the original creators’ profits.
In this case, since “Government Agency” isn’t part of X’s revenue-sharing program, the implications of profit loss could be relevant.
Previously, musicians like Sabrina Carpenter and SZA objected when the White House utilized their music in a video showcasing an immigration raid.
SZA remarked, “The White House’s audacity to upset artists with free publicity is the pinnacle of dark, inhumane tactics—it’s evil and boring.” Carpenter also weighed in on the now-removed video, calling it “evil and disgusting” while asking not to be associated with it or her music.
