Citizen Berlusconi [aka The Prime Minister and the Press]

English language documentary with Italian subtitles; interviews in Italian have English subtitles.

Probably out of date by now as it was made in 2003, but the fact it is still CENSORED in Italy seems like a very good reason for posting it here.

e wrote:

Silvio Berlusconi is the first media mogul ever to govern a Western democracy. With a net worth estimated at 13 billion euros*, Italy's Prime Minister controls 90% of Italian national television - directly or indirectly – the copyright on a quarter of all Italian books, and two national newspapers. He controls the main distribution networks for most of Italy’s magazines and movies, and roughly 60% of all television advertising sales. In Italy, where most people get their information from television, control of the airwaves is a political goldmine. No small wonder that Berlusconi holds Italy’s top political job.

Our film follows those who are trying to stop Berlusconi – within Parliament and the media, trying to make the truth of what is happening in Italy. Today a losing battle, but one that shows first hand what happens when a media mogul takes the reigns of power.

*2003 figures