The Role of Cinema in Geopolitics:
Case Studies from a Selection of International Films
Noureddine Bensoula
Abstract. This paper explores the strategic role of cinema in geopolitics, emphasizing how films function as instruments of soft power to shape global perceptions, promote national values, and influence international relations. By adopting a qualitative, comparative approach, the research examines a purposive sample of films from five national cinemas “American, Chinese, Russian, Indian, and Middle Eastern” selected for their international visibility, critical acclaim, and geopolitical relevance. The analysis demonstrates how cinematic narratives, character portrayals, and production strategies reflect national identities, reinforce political ideologies, and advance cultural diplomacy. Key examples include Hollywood productions such as Rocky IV and Black Panther, Chinese films like Operation Red Sea and The Wandering Earth, Russian films including The Last Warrior and Sputnik, Indian films such as RRR and Dangal, and Middle Eastern films like The Salesman and Capernaum. The findings highlight the transformative potential of cinema as a tool of soft power, capable of both projecting influence and shaping international discourse, while underscoring the economic, cultural, and political dimensions that underpin global film production. This study contributes to the understanding of media as a geopolitical instrument and provides insights into the interplay between culture, politics, and international power dynamics.
Keywords: soft power, geopolitics, cinema, movie poles