The Pizzagate Massacre (2021) Review

With the growing threat of disinformation and the escalation of so called ‘alternate truths’, it was only a matter of time before a film was made that focused on the consequences of conspiracy.

Whilst the idea that the world’s elite are a race of lizard people who control the earth from their base on the moon may seem like the synopsis of a sci-fi B-movie from the 50s, alarmingly this is a very real belief for many in 2021. With theories spreading like wildfire across social media, it has never been easier to rally like-minded individuals to the ‘cause’ – and in 2016 this is exactly what happened to a small pizzeria in Washington DC.

Pizzagate – for those that don’t know – is the term coined to describe a theory that gained traction during the 2016 presidential election. The bizarre hypothesis suggested the Democratic Party was covertly running an underground peadophile ring from the HQ of a pizza place in Washington D.C.

‘The Pizzagate Massacre’ from John Valley is a tongue in cheek look at the fallout of the spread of disinformation and focuses on young journalist Karen Black as she sets out to uncover the truth. From her poster questioning the validity of the moon landing to her cupboard kitted out for an apparently imminent doomsday, Karen is clearly no stranger to conspiracy theories.

It’s a sensitive and divisive topic that continues to drive debate and dominate the news. With Pizzagate paving way for the increased interest in less mainstream information sources, the distrust of experts has never been so prominent. As such, for some – ‘The Pizzagate Massacre’ may feel too soon. With a confident middle finger to the naysayers, Valley has wryly used this to his advantage – with the trailer for the feature proudly spotlighting the festival rejections received.

Though everything about The Pizzagate Massacre should feel ridiculous, the silliness is grounded by some impressive visuals and accomplished cinematography. Despite the outlandish premise, it doesn’t feel over the top. The dialogue is also fantastic, with some genuinely hilarious, laugh out loud moments.

Whilst the film is very funny, it is underlined by a more serious, political message at its core.

The news media that incited the outrage and violence in the first place is quick to distance itself, seeking an individual scapegoat to blame. Regardless of belief or background, the message is clear. The media makes monsters of people, and no matter which way you lean – everyone is being exploited in one way or another. As the feature draws to a close, the news anchor talks to the audience in a chilling scene that feels fiercely personal. She talks to you, and only you. As if to say – this is real.

The Pizzagate Massacre is a very amusing and clever film, but given the sensitivity of the topic may not be for everyone, with the humour at times making it all too easy to forget that the feature was borne of a very real thing. However, despite reservations – I found myself enjoying it a lot more than I thought I would.

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