1 Film as a Tool for War Propaganda: Synopsis from World War One Dr. Preeti Oza St. Andrew‟s College University of Mumbai Abstract: In the recent past, many 20th century scholars have started re-writing the images, perceptions, and investigations into World War I. The consensus forged in the interwar periods, the alleged role of German atrocities, and the role of Allied propaganda are being re- examined now. Filmmakers are one of the social conduits reflecting and commenting about society and the times. Good films can raise awareness and be a start to addressing local and global issues. They can educate about cultures, and provides a broader political, religious, or social context. They can dispel long-held misconceptions as well as be a catalyst for social change. But one of the most unique uses of films during World War I was War Propaganda. Most of them were used to entertain and engage but they also blurred the chasm of feature films and documentaries. Sometimes Hollywood makes films to inform a crucial story within our shared history. Sometimes it's to give visual presence to an unknown story of war or simply to entertain. But other times, it's to push a political agenda and sway perspectives. But pushing propaganda is one of the cardinal violations of the basic rule of Film making and not all propaganda is created equally. Sometimes propaganda is awful and insidious therein it lies to the viewer about important facts or histories. Other times propaganda is simply silly. World War I, from the very beginning, had used propaganda to shape international opinion. Governments of both sides devoted massive resources and huge amounts of effort in producing content and material designed to shape opinion and action internationally. The efforts of states to justify their actions, and to build international support, resulted in some of the most powerful propaganda ever produced. One of the most prominent weapons of this strategy was cinema and films. These films also shaped attitudes towards propaganda itself in the years following the end of the War.