THE CHARACTER of American movies has changed a great deal over the years. To take but one striking example: During the course of earlier wars, Hollywood churned out patriotic films depicting the valor of our troops, the menace of our enemies or simply the pluck of those who kept the home fires burning. In our current war, Hollywood is utterly silent, except for the occasional indictment of America.

There are many reasons for this evolution, some having to do with money and markets, some with broader shifts in the culture. But one overlooked reason is this: The men who make the movies have changed. Today’s films are created mostly by crazed cult members, political fanatics and rich, pouty hedonists. They used to be created by men like Merian C. Cooper.