Debunking the Most Outrageously Fake Parts of War Dogs (2016)

In the world of Hollywood movies, it’s not uncommon for filmmakers to take creative liberties and embellish certain aspects of a story for dramatic effect. "War Dogs" (2016), directed by Todd Phillips, is a prime example of a film that may have taken some creative liberties with the true events it was based on. While the movie is entertaining and engaging, there are several aspects of the film that are exaggerated or flat-out fabricated for the sake of storytelling. In this article, we will debunk some of the most outrageously fake parts of "War Dogs" to separate fact from fiction.

1. The Characters’ Background

One of the main aspects of "War Dogs" that has been heavily criticized for its inaccuracies is the background of the two main characters, David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli. In the film, the characters are portrayed as down-and-out 20-somethings who stumble into the arms dealing business by chance. In reality, however, both Packouz and Diveroli had previous experience in the arms industry and were actively pursuing government contracts long before the events depicted in the film.

2. The International Arms Dealing Operations

Another aspect of "War Dogs" that has been called into question is the portrayal of the characters’ international arms dealing operations. In the film, Packouz and Diveroli are shown as navigating the dangerous world of arms dealing with little to no experience, making risky deals and eluding law enforcement. While there is certainly an element of truth to their exploits, the film takes significant liberties in exaggerating the scope and danger of their operations for dramatic effect.

3. The Betrayal and Ultimate Fate

One of the most dramatic moments in "War Dogs" comes towards the end of the film when one of the characters betrays the other, leading to a tense confrontation and a falling out between the two former friends. While this moment is undoubtedly suspenseful and emotionally impactful, the real-life events that inspired this scene were far less dramatic and sensationalized than depicted in the film. The ultimate fate of the characters also differs significantly from what is portrayed on screen.

4. The Sense of Urgency and High-Stakes Drama

Throughout "War Dogs," the audience is led to believe that the characters are operating under extreme pressure and with their lives constantly in danger. While it’s true that arms dealing is a risky and high-stakes business, the sense of urgency and danger portrayed in the film is exaggerated for cinematic effect. In reality, Packouz and Diveroli’s operations were likely far more mundane and less harrowing than depicted on screen.

5. The Role of International Politics

Finally, "War Dogs" takes considerable liberties in its portrayal of the role of international politics and diplomacy in the arms dealing business. While there is certainly an element of truth to the idea that arms dealing is influenced by geopolitical factors, the film simplifies and exaggerates these dynamics for the sake of storytelling. The reality of the arms dealing industry is far more complex and multifaceted than what is portrayed in the film.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Were the main characters of "War Dogs" based on real people?

Yes, the characters of David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli in "War Dogs" were inspired by real individuals who were involved in arms dealing operations in the mid-2000s.

2. Did the events in the film "War Dogs" actually happen?

While "War Dogs" is based on true events, the film takes significant creative liberties in its portrayal of the characters and their exploits.

3. Is arms dealing as dangerous and dramatic as depicted in "War Dogs"?

While arms dealing is certainly a risky business, the sense of danger and urgency depicted in the film is exaggerated for dramatic effect.

4. How accurate is "War Dogs" in depicting the international arms dealing industry?

"War Dogs" takes considerable liberties in its portrayal of the international arms dealing industry, simplifying and exaggerating certain aspects for storytelling purposes.

5. What ultimately happened to the real-life characters of David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli?

The real-life fates of David Packouz and Efraim Diveroli differed significantly from what is portrayed in the film "War Dogs," with both individuals facing legal consequences for their arms dealing activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while "War Dogs" is an entertaining and engaging film, it is important to remember that it is a work of fiction based on true events. The filmmakers took creative liberties in their portrayal of the characters and their exploits, exaggerating certain aspects for dramatic effect. By debunking some of the most outrageously fake parts of the film, we can separate fact from fiction and gain a better understanding of the real-life events that inspired the movie.