286. Revolution Of Our Times; movie review

 

REVOLUTION OF OUR TIMES

Cert 15

152 mins

BBFC advice: Contains strong images of real violence, injury detail and dead bodies, language

Just imagine having to fight for the right to vote or speak freely about politics.

The people of Hong Kong were promised both when their homeland was handed by the British back to the Chinese in 1997.

At that time, it was agreed that, despite becoming part of China, Hong Kong would retain a high level of autonomy.

However, as the 25 years have passed, the freedoms of its citizens have been progressively eroded.

And the protests in 2019 against the Hong Kong government stamping down even further on its people make up the subject of Kiwi Chow's shattering documentary.

Chow has access to the frontline of the demonstrations which vary from the huge - attended by two million of the seven million Hongkongers - to the more focused insurrections.

Many youngsters are involved and interviewees, with a surprisingly clear view on the importance of democracy, are from 14 years old upwards.

The words are fascinating but there is no doubt that the intimacy of the violence by the state against its own people will remain longer in the memory.

Chow's film was daring on several levels.

There was considerable risk making the movie both at the time of the protests which were brutally repressed and thereafter when draconian laws were in place.

Meanwhile, those who have been persuaded to be interviewed could also face harsh punishments for their admissions of being involved in the anti-government actions.

We should be thankful that they have all been prepared to put their heads above the parapet and show and tell what happened in Hong Kong during the protest movement.

We can only wait to see what happens now that such organised dissent has been quashed.

Reasons to watch: First-hand footage of repression of democracy

Reasons to avoid: A bit too long

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: Yes

Nudity: None

Overall rating: 9/10

Did you know? The Civil Human Rights Front announced its closure in August 2021, saying no members were willing to perform secretariat duties after its convenor, Figo Chan Ho-wun, was jailed for 18 months over a 2019 rally.

The final word. Kiwi Chow: "I never thought of quitting. I felt this was my mission: To make a documentary that serves as a record of everything that happened — using my camera to show people around the world what the protestors of Hong Kong needed to say." Hollywood Reporter

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