Pizzagate: A Cautionary Tale of Conspiracy and Danger
Deep Dive into the Depraved Heart of Pizzagate
"Pizzagate" has become a chilling term synonymous with depravity and unfounded conspiracy theories. Now, director John Valley brings this toxic debacle to the silver screen in his upcoming film, "Duncan." But fear not, for this grindhouse movie is not merely a rehash of baseless allegations but a profound exploration of the dangers that lurk within the shadows of conspiracy.
From Pizza Parlor to Political Nightmare
Pizzagate emerged as a dark and utterly baseless conspiracy in 2016, alleging that a cabal of Satanic, pedophilic Democratic politicians were operating a child sex trafficking ring in the basement of a Washington, D.C., pizzeria. This absurd narrative fanned the flames of hate, leading to death threats and even a gunman opening fire inside the targeted establishment.
Valley’s "Duncan" transposes this twisted conspiracy to Austin, the stomping ground of Pizzagate promoter Alex Jones. The film takes the theory to even more outlandish heights, with Jones’ stand-in, Terri Lee, asserting that a local pizza joint, Tootz Pizza, is a front for child-snatching lizard people.
Unraveling the Threads of Conspiracy
An amateur conspiracist and the eponymous far-right militiaman named Duncan join forces to investigate Lee’s claims. However, their quest soon leads them down a rabbit hole of danger and deception.
The trailer for "Duncan" reveals a nation on the brink, with an armed militia led by a doomsday demagogue, conflicts over Confederate symbols, and a surge in gun ownership amidst mass protests and shootings. The film deftly captures the heightened tensions and fear that have become all too prevalent in society.
Not a Vehicle for Disinformation
Despite the sensitive nature of Pizzagate, Valley emphasizes that "Duncan" is not a vehicle for disinformation or a clandestine attempt to spread pro-pedophile propaganda. He insists that the film’s focus lies not on the victims of sexual abuse but on a fictional character’s troubled journey.
Roots of Conspiracy in Fantastical Thinking
Valley draws a connection between conspiracy theories and the desperate search for order in a chaotic world. In the midst of pandemonium and upheaval, people seek refuge in fantastical thinking and a sense of control through conspiracy narratives. This phenomenon has been amplified by the rise of social media and the ease of spreading misinformation.
The Perils of Embracing Conspiracy
Valley warns that conspiracy theories offer a false sense of security, perpetuating a cycle of fear and illusion. The film serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of embracing these dangerous delusions, which have the potential to fuel violence and social unrest.
Release on the Horizon
"Duncan" does not yet have a release date, but Valley anticipates a possible release by the end of 2020. In the meantime, the film’s haunting score, reminiscent of John Carpenter’s cinematic style, is available on YouTube.
Conclusion
"Duncan" is not a glorification of Pizzagate or a platform for conspiracy propaganda. It is a gripping exploration of the dangers that lurk within the shadows of conspiracy, a cautionary tale that resonates all too strongly in our current climate of heightened tensions and social division. Valley’s film serves as a timely reminder of the importance of critical thinking, empathy, and the pursuit of truth in an era marked by the proliferation of false narratives.
