Anonymous: A Million Men reveals a new breed of political activist: unhampered by geography, united by common goals, enabled by the internet.
Director Patrick Ireland set out to tell the story of how young people are using different models of political engagement to fight a system that is failing its citizens.
“It’s a massive myth that young people aren’t engaged in politics,” says Matteo Bergamini, producer and co-writer, “They are, they’re just not calling it politics. They’re calling it racial issues, environmentalism, and so on.”
The film was produced by Shout Out UK, an independent youth news network that aims to lower political apathy by showing the direct impact of politics on young people.
In the lead up the 2015 general election, questions are being asked about the political engagement of young people, whether it’s failing and, if not, where it might be directed. Yet increasingly it’s being argued that young people are turning to alternative politics outside of the established system.
A Million Men uses the Million Mask March of 2014, where thousands of activists took to the streets in London, as a platform to explore wider issues surrounding politics, featuring interviews with Anonymous members, Conservative MP Chloe Smith and Russell Brand.
A fervent appeal for fair representation and grassroots action, the film ends on a final, powerful statement that lingers on far beyond the rolling credits and the applause of the crowd: “We have nothing to lose but our chains.”
Anonymous: A Million Men will be screened at Parliament post-election, date and time to be announced.
You might like
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In the pit at one of the UK’s last stock car & banger speedways
Stock Car Racing Isn’t Dead — Photographer Liam McCarthy spent time in and around the Arlington Raceway’s circuit, capturing the diehard community that keeps the sport alive.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Lower Duck Pond, the nicest town on the internet
/r/HaveWeMet — With a population of 2,500 and no fixed location, the subreddit is a space for roleplaying citizens to solve mysteries, host fictional events and ultimately connect. In an internet that’s often divided and toxic, Vicky Jessop hangs out in one of its most wholesome corners.
Written by: Vicky Jessop
A major Nan Goldin exhibition is coming to London
You Never Did Anything Wrong — Opening at the Hayward Gallery in November, the show will debut a new film from the artist and activist, alongside a slate of recent work.
Written by: Jack Dennison-Thompson
