The Plow that Broke the PlainsNew Deal Propaganda

The Plow that Broke the Plains

Pare Lorentz, 1934

The Plow that Broke the Plains is without a doubt a beautifully constructed piece of art. Lorentz owes these dynamic images to Paul Strand, who later became one of the most respected American photographers (and whom Lorentz fired shortly after the film). Unfortunately, the sporadic overbearing narration really brought down the overall quality of the documentary. During the “war scene” when the plows were montaged with tanks, “NEW PROFITS!” and  “NEW HOPE!” were practically yelled at me.

While the film is expository through the voice of god narration, the poetic elements of the documentary add to its overall effectiveness. The slow pans and close ups across plains, sun-baked soil, machinery, families, and faces mixed with the folk music and all-knowing commentary suggest importance to the viewer. But along with these thoughtfully crafted images is a narrator who knows exactly what he wants his viewer to believe. 

The filmmaker uses the footage to create a story that isn’t completely accurate. Leaving out the human aspect of the dustbowl turmoil did justice to the Roosevelt administration. But was this ethical? Lorentz explains the disaster using war and climate, ignoring the tremendous impact of overgrazing/ploughing. This is an early example of the tension between government sponsorship and the accuracy of the film.