Meaning: The quote "Meanwhile, politics is about getting a candidate in front of the public as a star, politics as rock'n'roll, politics as a movie" by Joe Eszterhas, a renowned writer, succinctly captures the intersection of politics and popular culture. This quote alludes to the idea that modern politics has become a spectacle, where candidates are portrayed as celebrities, akin to rock stars or movie icons. In this analysis, we will delve into the implications of this quote, exploring how the convergence of politics and popular culture has shaped the contemporary political landscape.

In today's media-driven society, the line between politics and entertainment has become increasingly blurred. Politicians often employ image consultants, public relations experts, and media strategists to craft their public personas, much like how celebrities are managed by talent agencies. This deliberate cultivation of a candidate's image is reminiscent of the promotional tactics used in the entertainment industry to create larger-than-life figures that resonate with the public.

The comparison of politics to rock'n'roll and movies speaks to the performative nature of contemporary political campaigns. Just as rock stars captivate audiences with their charisma and stage presence, politicians seek to engage and enthrall voters through carefully orchestrated public appearances and speeches. Similarly, the theatricality of politics mirrors the narrative-driven nature of movies, where compelling storytelling and emotional resonance are crucial for capturing the audience's attention.

Moreover, the quote underscores the emphasis on spectacle and showmanship in modern politics. Political rallies, debates, and campaign events are often staged to evoke a sense of grandeur and excitement, mirroring the production values associated with major concerts or blockbuster films. The use of elaborate stage sets, visual effects, and crowd-pleasing performances serves to create a sense of spectacle that is designed to captivate and energize the public.

Furthermore, the comparison of politics to rock'n'roll and movies also points to the cult of personality that has come to define contemporary political leadership. Just as fans idolize their favorite rock stars or movie actors, voters are often drawn to political figures based on their charisma, charm, and perceived authenticity. This cult of personality can overshadow substantive policy discussions, as the focus shifts towards the personal appeal and star power of the candidates.

On a broader level, the quote by Joe Eszterhas reflects the evolving nature of political communication and public engagement. In an era dominated by social media and 24-hour news cycles, politicians are not only expected to govern effectively but also to maintain a constant presence in the public eye. This necessitates a level of visibility and public relations acumen that is reminiscent of the strategies employed in the entertainment industry.

In conclusion, Joe Eszterhas's quote encapsulates the contemporary fusion of politics and popular culture, highlighting the performative nature, spectacle, and cult of personality that have come to define modern political discourse. The comparison of politics to rock'n'roll and movies underscores the theatricality and promotional aspects of political campaigning, as well as the increasing importance of image management and public relations in shaping the public perception of political figures. This phenomenon raises important questions about the impact of popular culture on the democratic process and the role of substance versus style in contemporary politics.