A Rhetorical Analysis Of Bill Pullman's Speech

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In the 1994 blockbuster hit film, Independence Day, Bill Pullman’s speech as President Thomas J. Whitmore, has long been a cultural point of reference that has been used to this very day to symbolize American pride. The film’s speech is a combination of Pullman’s delivery and proud tone of absolute certainty that the world can achieve victory for the human race over extra terrestrials that invade our galaxy during the forth of July weekend. Despite not having a real chance to defeat the massive and powerful alien race, the American President is unwilling to see the citizens of earth go down without a fight and ultimately, the speech does not go in vain. Of course, in the film, people united by unimaginable circumstances are able to destroy all the aliens from taking over. In his speech, he uses ethos, pathos, and logos throughout. …show more content…

The military is engulfed in the war of the worlds, yet they find solace and belief in what Pullman represents. He establishes himself as a voice of reason by offering his own resources, together in the fight to save the planet from annihilation. All pilots, soldiers and special forces are bound together, as he, too will be fighting in the services of mankind’s existence. Ethos is further developed in the president’s speech by his word choice and overall tone of trustworthiness. From the start to the end of his speech, his words become more fierce over the course of the speech. He is able to connect all humans listening to the armies getting ready for battle, to the helpless that are only able to listen and give them all hope by his strong emotions promoting this Independence Day. The world at large will be fighting for their right to exist! Bill Pullman’s representation as the American President is focused on ensuring survival for the humans still alive despite this violent takeover from the

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