A Savage Art: The Life & Cartoons of Pat Oliphant

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Joel B The film offers a brisk overview of the career of editorial cartoonist Pat Oliphant, an Aussie who became perhaps the premier cartoonist of his age in America. Its revealing, insightful, funny, and a worthwhile modern history lesson. Subtle enhancements include sound effects, music, and animation to augment the talking heads and archival clips of Pat at work. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 09/18/25 Full Review A V This film brings attention to political commentary as an art form that showcases the decades long wit and artistic ability of Mr. Oliphant. I was surprised that in his syndication, he completed this work with an early morning news briefing and an output in a few hours for pickup and distribution. The format and pacing are delivered in an entertaining manner by Banowsky. It is amazing to see, in addition, Oliphant’s talent for sculpture and painting. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 10/20/25 Full Review Heidi J Everyone should see this film! The documentary does a monumental job highlighting the life and accomplishments of Pat Oliphant, as well as the personal sacrifices he made for his work. It also delightfully captures the humor in his personality. The cartoons are hilarious! On a more serious note, the timing of this documentary is eerily relevant, as the safeguards protecting our right to freedom of expression—especially in the media—are under threat. This film is a valuable contribution to society. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/20/25 Full Review eddie p Savage Art — The Title Says It All Banowsky and his team do an exceptional job of capturing the fearlessness that defined Pat Oliphant’s work — an artist who never hesitated to speak truth to power, no matter which side of the aisle a politician stood on. Savage Art reminds us of the courage it takes to challenge authority through art, and how vital that courage remains today. At a time when many of our freedoms are being chipped away, this film could not be more timely. It’s a shame that fear of political reprisal and the influence of shareholder sentiment have silenced much of the bold commentary that once thrived in our public discourse. Thanks to Bill Banowsky for reminding us — through Oliphant’s fearless legacy — of the power and necessity of speaking truth to power. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/19/25 Full Review Patrick D This was an excellent film on an extraordinary life. Pat Oliphant’s cartooning took on the powerful and called out abuses through many presidential terms and world events. It is amazing how many of the cartoons still resonate today. He was fearless in his criticism. With press freedoms under attack and efforts to curtail free speech becoming more prevalent, this film is a wake up call for the need to speak out in whatever way you can. His second act as an artist was a big surprise and his sculptures are incredible. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/19/25 Full Review Kecia D Loved this fascinating and engaging documentary, A Savage Art is an Absolute must-see for anyone interested in American history, political art, or the power of satire. It's a beautifully made film that showcases the incredible talent and impact of political cartoonist Pat Oliphant. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/19/25 Full Review Read all reviews

A Savage Art: The Life & Cartoons of Pat Oliphant

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