MOVIE REVIEW
Democracy Noir
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 53m
Director(s): Connie Field
Language: English & Hungarian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 CPH:DOX Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Take an educational tour of Hungarian politics in the film DEMOCRACY NOIR, which emerges as a point of reference on world politics courtesy of Connie Field's directorial hand. This documentary immerses you in a profoundly moving struggle against the tide of authoritarianism led by a trio of extraordinary women. As a first impression, it's undeniably potent—a narrative that captures your attention and clutches at your heart with the raw courage on display. Living in the US, I also feel that this film is a warning, a red flag for people here to open their eyes and see what horrible potential the November election could cause if more don’t take it seriously.

The soul of DEMOCRACY NOIR beats with the stories of politician Timea, journalist Babett, and nurse Nikoletta (Niko), three women who dare to stand up to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's contentious rule. Their endeavors against a backdrop of political machinations lend the film an intimate yet universally resonant appeal. Field combines and contrasts these individual journeys with a broader critique of authoritarian expansion, crafting a documentary that is as intellectually enriching as it is emotionally engaging.

Taking us behind the curtain of Hungary's political world, the film lays bare the struggle between democratic integrity and the forces aiming to undermine it. Orbán's use of nationalistic allure versus the steadfast resolve of our freedom fighters makes for a narrative as thrilling as any high-stakes drama. Field's discerning eye for detail elevates DEMOCRACY NOIR from mere political commentary to a gripping saga of defiance and determination.

Field's connection to Hungary enriches the documentary's authenticity, infusing the film with an insider's perspective that adds depth and nuance to the unfolding drama. This personal stake in the narrative amplifies the urgency and significance of the resistance efforts led by Timea, Babett, and Niko, painting a vivid picture of the indispensable role of women in challenging oppressive regimes. It's a narrative that spotlights their bravery and underscores Field's knack for capturing stirring human stories within the complex web of politics.

The journey to bring DEMOCRACY NOIR to the screen was fraught with obstacles, from the intricacies of navigating a foreign political landscape to the logistical hurdles inherent in documentary filmmaking. Yet, the finished product stands as a testament to the creative fortitude of Field and her team. Their triumph over these challenges has yielded a documentary that not only spotlights the precarious balance of democracy in Hungary but also stands as an emblem of hope for global audiences facing similar threats.

DEMOCRACY NOIR transcends its role as a documentary to become a rallying cry for defending democratic principles worldwide. It speaks to an audience far beyond those with a vested interest in Hungarian politics, urging people everywhere to acknowledge and combat the encroaching shadows of autocracy. This film inspires action and reflection on the part of its viewers, inviting them to play a part in the ongoing saga of democratic resilience.

DEMOCRACY NOIR is nothing short of a cinematic triumph, blending political intrigue with human drama to stunning effect. The film balances the gravity of its subject with the compelling, personal narratives of Timea, Babett, and Niko, reminding us of the power of individual and collective action in the face of adversity. Beyond merely telling a story, it sparks a vital conversation about the relentless fight to uphold ideals, making it an essential viewing for anyone concerned with the future of freedom and justice.

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[photo courtesy of REEL LAVA FILMS]

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