The new film, Act of Valor, depicts Navy SEALs in action against smugglers and terrorists. The film openly touts its active-duty SEALs who act as the protagonists in the film, alongside plenty of military hardware and vehicles. The filmmakers reportedly shot scenes of actual SEALs drills and training exercises. The film highlights the cozy relationship between Hollywood and the Pentagon, leading many analysts to question whether the film is merely entertainment or outright propaganda.

An article in the Washington Post investigates the motives of the filmmakers and examines the production of the film. The important role of the SEALs in current anti-terrorist operations makes this discussion timely.

Northern Illinois University Students in HIST 390 History and Film: War in Film will be interested in this article.