Karl Rove: The Architect

An evenhanded and in-depth look at the man whom George W. Bush calls “the architect” behind his gubernatorial and presidential races, this April 2005 Frontline episode provides biographical information about Rove's college years as a Goldwater Republican and his role in helping to create the direct-mail industry (originally designed as a campaign tool). Delving into Rove's stated 30-year plan for right-wing domination--decades of reshaping American politics with his the-ends-justifies-the-means strategy for a permanent conservative majority--the documentary traces his history of giving (in his own words) "dirty tricks" seminars for Republicans, deliberate profiling and manipulation of Christian voters, determination to boil campaigns down to two or three "anger point" issues his candidate can control, and philosophy of "attacking" ("Fifty percent of paid media should be devoted to attacking"). Lest you think the term "evenhanded" was a misnomer, keep in mind that the majority of those interviewed for this film (surprise: Rove refused) are Rove-admiring Republican politicians, conservative pundits, and campaign officials, and Frontline lets them (and several misleading attack ads) speak for themselves. In light of Rove recently making front-page news due to his controversial part in revealing the identity of a CIA worker, this informative program couldn't have a more timely release. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (R. Blackwelder)