The Domestic Motion Picture Work of the Office of War Information

Abstract

Formulate and carry out, through the use of press, radio, motion picture, and other facilities, information programs designed to facilitate the development of an informed and intelligent understanding, at home and abroad, of the status and progress of the war effort and of the war policies, activities, and aims of the Government.... Review, clear, and approve all proposed radio and motion picture programs sponsored by Federal departments and agencies; and serve as the central point of clearance and contact for the radio broadcasting and motion picture industries, respectively, in their relationships with Federal departments and agencies concerning such Government programs.' As Director of the OWI, President Roosevelt named Elmer Davis, who had come prominently before the public eye as a CBS news analyst from 1939 to 1942 after having been a free-lance journalist over a period of fifteen years. The director did not have to start from