#1511 - Oliver Stone

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Films and Combat Experiences

  • Discussion about the excitement regarding the guest's book and films, especially 'The Untold History of the United States'
  • Personal account of combat experience during the Vietnam War and its influence on filmmaking
  • Comparison of real combat experiences to the portrayal of combat in movies, highlighting the exaggeration in newer militaristic films post-2001
• 00:02:02

  Personal Impact and Realism in Filmmaking

  • Reflection on the importance of authentic experiences in making combat-related films like 'Platoon'
  • Importance of realistic portrayals in contrast to exaggerated heroic depictions in films like 'Lone Survivor'
  • Discussion on characters in 'Platoon' being based on real individuals like Sergeant Barnes and Sergeant Elias
• 00:12:21

  Struggles in Film Production and Studio Resistance

  • Narrative of challenges faced during the production of a low-budget film in the Philippines
  • Discussion on studio resistance and efforts to alter the film
  • The impact of studio executives, including Henry Kissinger, on the fate of the movie
• 00:14:06

  Realism and Controversy in War Films

  • Reflections on the portrayal of war and discontent during the Vietnam War era
  • Emphasis on the realism and conflicted emotions invoked by 'Platoon'
  • Comparison of military strategies and the depiction of battle confusion
• 00:24:03

  Success of the Film 'Platoon' and the Journey to Making it

  • Discussion on the casting choices and replacements in 'Platoon'
  • Emotional journey of the director in bringing 'Platoon' to life against various odds
  • Reception and success of 'Platoon' as a groundbreaking film with unexpected impact
• 00:26:14

  Impact of 'Platoon' and Director's Journey to Freedom of Expression

  • Recognition of 'Platoon' as a significant highlight in the director's life and career
  • Personal struggles and transformation leading to the creation of films with poignant messages
  • The director's approach to filmmaking with a blend of commercial success and meaningful storytelling
• 00:36:46

  Impact of World War on American Economy and Enemy Creation

  • Discussion on the impact of World War II on the American economy and employment post-war
  • The militarized economy and the concept of having an enemy for economic reasons
  • Personal anecdotes about the fear of Russian invasion and the prevalent mentality during that era
• 00:38:36

  JFK Assassination and Political Intrigues

  • Exploration of the complex story of JFK's assassination and the controversial theories surrounding it
  • Discussion on the multiple autopsies conducted and the discrepancies found
  • Anecdotes about the challenges and controversies faced while making films related to political matters
• 00:48:03

  Kennedy Assassination Conspiracy Theories and Government Plans

  • Discussion of the Northwoods document revealing a shocking plan by the US government
  • Exploration of the potential involvement of top officials like Alan Dulles in the assassination
  • Critique of the Warren Commission and its handling of the investigation
• 00:51:50

  Personal Experiences and Reflections on War, Prison, and Drug Policies

  • Personal anecdotes about military experiences, including conflicts and interactions with different people
  • Reflection on being thrown into jail for marijuana possession and insights on the early days of the drug war
  • Discussion on the impact of drug laws on civil rights movements and society
• 00:59:02

  Investigation into Garrison and Oswald Stories

  • Discussion on creating a movie with central characters like Lee Harvey Oswald and Garrison
  • Involvement of Oswald with the CIA highlighted
  • Exploration of the assassination plot and Dallas section as part of the movie's structure
• 01:01:00

  Ruby's Connection and Cancer Experiments

  • Intrigue surrounding Jack Ruby and his possible involvement in the plot
  • Details about the CIA's activities including LSD experiments and connections to historical figures like Manson
  • Discussion on cancer experimentation, potential assassination methods, and the making of a documentary to address these topics
• 01:10:27

  The Making and Impact of Scarface

  • Discussion on the tension and intensity desired in scenes of 'Scarface'
  • Exploration of Tony Montana as a hero figure despite being a bad guy
  • Insight into the initial reception of 'Scarface' and its subsequent rise to an iconic drug war movie
• 01:12:15

  Critical Analysis of Drug Wars and Government Involvement

  • Reflection on the war on drugs and the creation of large bureaucracies around such events
  • Observations on historical repetition in supporting questionable figures like Hector Hercmatier
  • Discussion on the documentary series 'The Untold History of the United States' and its exploration of American exceptionalism
• 01:22:56

  Discussion on Films, Documentaries, and Government Surveillance

  • Joe Rogan shares his experience and challenges in making 20 films and numerous documentaries.
  • Conversation transitions to the story of Edward Snowden and government surveillance.
  • Exploration of the impact of whistleblowers and the struggles faced by presidents in bringing significant change.
• 01:24:30

  Politics, Regime Change, and the Complexity of Being President

  • Continuation of the discussion on political figures like John F. Kennedy and Barack Obama.
  • Insights into the challenges of being a president and the influence of the military-industrial complex.
  • Critique of government policies leading to regime changes and the complexity of international politics.
• 01:35:39

  Filmmaking Challenges and Self-Censorship in the Industry

  • Discussion on the challenges faced in filmmaking, particularly in getting support for important stories
  • Censorship and self-censorship within the industry as a barrier to discussing sensitive topics
  • The struggle to bring attention to crucial stories like those of Snowden due to fear and polarizing viewpoints
• 01:37:38

  Unrealized Film Projects and the Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

  • Details on unfulfilled film projects like 'Me Lie' and the Martin Luther King Jr. story
  • The complexity of depicting historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and challenges faced in their portrayal
  • The significance of revisiting past projects to ensure important stories are told in the modern era