UPDATE: A striking new documentary titled Orwell: 2+2=5 has just premiered, featuring director Raoul Peck who boldly asserts that renowned author George Orwell would declare “I told you so” regarding today’s political climate. The film, which debuted on October 3, 2023 in New York, juxtaposes Orwell’s writings against contemporary footage of political turmoil, including scenes from Donald Trump‘s presidency.
This documentary arrives at a critical time when Hollywood is increasingly hesitant to engage with political narratives. Peck’s film, however, does just that—offering a piercing commentary on authoritarianism through Orwell’s own experiences, which range from being born in India under British rule to his disillusionment as a police officer in Burma.
Peck meticulously charts Orwell’s trajectory, including his pivotal role in the Spanish Civil War. He emphasizes that Orwell’s perspective on totalitarianism is alarmingly relevant today. The film includes shocking clips of authoritarian actions, such as Vladimir Putin justifying the invasion of Ukraine and the persecution of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar.
Peck reveals in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that his intent was to create a timeless piece, stating, “Even though it is current, I wanted to make a film that will still stay in 10 years, 20 years, 30 years.” This approach allows audiences to draw their own parallels between Orwell’s time and the present, engaging with the content on a deeper level.
The film’s release sparks urgent conversations about the state of democracy today. Peck notes that Orwell’s insights about human nature and governance are more poignant than ever. He quotes Orwell’s claim that “people are always willing to condemn the other without recognizing what they are doing themselves,” highlighting the prevalent divisiveness in today’s political discourse.
As Peck illustrates, the recurring themes of authoritarianism in Orwell’s works are echoed in contemporary global events, suggesting that the struggle against oppressive regimes transcends time and geography. He reflects on the dangers of apathy in society, urging viewers to remain vigilant: “You are in the subway, somebody is being attacked. Do you stand up or not?”
The film is set for a wider release in Los Angeles on October 10, 2023, and is expected to resonate with audiences grappling with the complexities of modern political narratives. This urgent documentary is not just a reflection of the past; it’s a clarion call for vigilance against the backslide into totalitarianism, making it essential viewing for anyone concerned about the future of democracy.
As the world watches, Orwell: 2+2=5 aims to not just inform but also inspire action, reminding us that the lessons of history are not just relics of the past, but vital guides for the present and future.
