Education for Death: The Making of the Nazi

Walt Disney Productions
Education for Death: The Making of the Nazi, 1943
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2lf5hg
10:08
Animated Short

Techniques

Education for Death: The Making of the Nazi stands out from other Disney cartoons of the time in terms of its formal aspects. The film deviates from the traditional Disney style, both visually and thematically, to suit its subject matter. Disney’s high quality and fluid animation was adapted to create a distinct atmosphere that reflects the darkness and seriousness of the narrative.

Unlike classic Disney cartoons and their other government funded propaganda films of the time, Education for Death does not feature the usual iconic Disney characters. Instead, it introduces characters designed specifically to represent the German context and the Nazi regime. The visual style departs from the typical Disney aesthetic, incorporating a somber and menacing tone through careful attention to lighting, shading, and composition. Additionally, the use of German dialogue adds authenticity and immerses viewers in the historical context. These distinct formal aspects collectively contribute to the unique visual and thematic experience of the film, capturing the gravity of the Nazi regime and its indoctrination tactics.

Representation

The short explores the indoctrination and transformation of a young German boy, Hans, into a Nazi soldier. It vividly depicts his journey from childhood innocence to becoming a fervent supporter of Hitler's regime. Through Hans' narrative, the film serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating how a totalitarian ideology can manipulate and shape young minds.

The formal aspects of the film further enhance its ideological messaging. Hans is initially portrayed with innocent features, symbolizing the vulnerability of youth and the ease with which totalitarian ideologies can prey upon them. In stark contrast, the characters representing the Nazi regime, such as Hitler and Goebbels, are visually depicted with a sickly and evil appearance. Their monstrous portrayal reflects their manipulative roles as villains who exploit the innocence of individuals like Hans. Additionally, the film presents the Nazi regime as faceless, anti christian, which are diametrically opposed to American rugged individualism and Christian values, enforcing the ideology of its intended western audience.

Reception

Given the context of WWII, it's no surprise the film was received positively by its American audiences at the time. As Cunnigham states; “these [propaganda] films were proven effective in the Gallup polls conducted shortly after they came out, these cartoons did not change public opinion, they reinforced it.” (Cunningham, p.62). Today, the film is primarily viewed as a historical artifact that reflects wartime propaganda efforts. It can be recognized as a significant example of Disney's involvement in propaganda production during World War II, and how ideological signifiers can be used to shape public opinion.

Sources

Cunningham, Amanda Michelle, "Walt Disney and the Propaganda Complex: Government Funded Animation and Hollywood Complicity During WWII" (2014). UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones. 2072.

http://dx.doi.org/10.34917/5836091

Croteau, Melissa, and Carolyn Jess-Cooke. “Apocalyptic Shakespeare: Essays on Visions of Chaos and Revelation in Recent Film Adaptations.” Google Books, books.google.ca/books?id=SjD_mxfVupAC&lpg=PP1&pg=PP1#v=onepage&q&f=false.