A Portrait of Courage Under Fire

Read Time:3 Minute, 37 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Who's Afraid of Nathan Law?
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 26m
Director(s): Joe Piscatella
Language: English, Cantonese with English subtitles
Where To Watch: opening at Laemmle Royal in Los Angeles and DCTV Firehouse on September 20, 2024, and streaming here www.pbs.org September 23

RAVING REVIEW: In the latest film by Joe Piscatella, WHO’S AFRAID OF NATHAN LAW? dissects the gripping saga of Hong Kong's struggles with democracy, using the life of Nathan Law as a narrative focus. This film captures the grim realities faced by those under oppressive regimes. Piscatella crafts a visual essay that thrusts viewers onto the frontlines where ideals clash with authoritarian might.

The narrative is pieced together through personal accounts and on-the-ground footage, offering a gritty, candid look into the lives of those who dare to defy. The director uses dynamic visuals to convey the urgency and intensity of protests, balancing these with quieter, reflective moments that offer a glimpse into the inner lives of the activists. Nathan Law, alongside figures like Agnes Chow and Joshua Wong, are portrayed not just as protagonists in a political drama but as beacons of resilience and defiance.

The film's power lies in its ability to transport viewers into the heart of the action. You feel the surge of the crowd, hear the chants, and see the resolve in the eyes of the young people standing up against a giant. The film does not shy away from the toll this struggle takes—moments of triumph are fleeting, often overshadowed by setbacks that pose questions about the future of democracy in Hong Kong.

WHO’S AFRAID OF NATHAN LAW? isn’t here to present many new solutions or insights into the way forward for these movements, which might leave those familiar with the situation wanting more. It sketches the contours of resistance without charting a path forward, focusing more on the personal than the political resolution.

The documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for freedom and the heavy sacrifices it entails. It personalizes the political, making the broader issues of freedom and control palpable and immediate, felt through the experiences of those living them. The film excels in this, blending personal narrative with broader socio-political commentary to craft an intimate and expansive story.

The documentary also catalyzes international dialogue about the nature of political freedom and civil liberties. By highlighting Hong Kong’s situation, WHO’S AFRAID OF NATHAN LAW? extends its reach beyond local boundaries, encouraging viewers worldwide to reflect on the universal values of democracy and human rights. This aspect of the film adds a layer of global relevance, emphasizing that the fight for democratic freedoms in Hong Kong mirrors struggles worldwide.

Ultimately, WHO’S AFRAID OF NATHAN LAW? is more than a collection of protest scenes; it is a compelling saga of courage against crushing odds. It underscores the fragility of democratic values under authoritarian pressure but also highlights the enduring spirit of those who continue to fight for these values. While revisiting familiar ground for some, the documentary leaves a lasting impact, ensuring the story of resistance in Hong Kong resonates with audiences worldwide.

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[photo courtesy of PBS, PANDAMONEUM FILMS]

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