The evening highlights the “power of storytelling to foster dialogue around the world”

WASHINGTON, DC – The Atlantic Council and the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) on March 15 held a private screening of 12 Strong, the incredible story of the first Special Forces team deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11. The event included an expert panel discussion on the origins of the war in Afghanistan and future US policy for the country and region.  

Held at the National Archives, the screening convened government, business, and military leaders, and included welcoming remarks by Frederick Kempe, Atlantic Council President and CEO.

Charles Rivkin, MPAA Chairman and CEO, took the stage to comment on the power of filmmaking: “Films like 12 Strong offer a gateway to understanding complex events that shape our nation’s history and tell the stories of people who were part of inspiring moments,” said Mr. Rivkin. “Tonight’s discussion is an example of how the film and television industry is committed to using the power of storytelling to foster dialogue around the world.” 

Adrienne Arsht, Executive Vice Chair of the Atlantic Council Board of Directors, commented: “The Atlantic Council seeks to tackle the biggest challenges of our time, so we are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to engage audiences on big policy questions and debates. Movies are an excellent way to connect people to issues that may seem complicated and far away – such as the US involvement in Afghanistan.”

The night also included a moderated discussion by Christine Wormuth, Director of the Adrienne Arsht Center for Resilience at the Atlantic Council, with former senior Commander to US and coalition forces in Afghanistan, Lieutenant General David Barno, USA (Ret.), and former Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence, Dr. Michael Vickers. The panelists discussed the origins of the Afghanistan war, prospects for peace, and the resilience of US service members and families after more than 16 years of war.

About the Atlantic Council
The Atlantic Council promotes constructive leadership and engagement in international affairs based on the Atlantic Community’s central role in meeting global challenges. The Council provides an essential forum for navigating the dramatic economic and political changes defining the twenty-first century by informing and galvanizing its uniquely influential network of global leaders.

About the MPAA
The Motion Picture Association of America, Inc. (MPAA) serves as the voice and advocate of the American motion picture, home video and television industries from its offices in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Its members include: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures; Paramount Pictures Corporation; Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.; Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation; Universal City Studios LLC; and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.