
The Ugly American
Harrison MacWhite, an intelligent and articulate scholar, survives a hostile Senate confirmation hearing at the hands of conservatives to become ambassador to Sarkan, a Southeast Asian country where civil war threatens the fragile peace. Despite his knowledge, MacWhite sees only a dichotomy between the US and Communism once he arrives. He refuses to accept the possibility that anti-American sentiment stems from a desire for self-determination and nationalism. As a result, he abandons his friend Deong, a local opposition leader, disregards a foreman's advice to slow down road construction, and tries to muscle ahead. What cost must the country and his friends bear in order for him to grow up?
Released: 1963-04-02