Engaging Movie Review: “Homegrown”

Experience a thought-provoking journey through the lens of the documentary “Homegrown.” Dive into the complexities of social movements and political landscapes as seen through the eyes of the filmmakers.

Full Review

We approached the movement as we would any other, with a genuine curiosity, of wanting to understand. Filmmaker: Homegrown played Venice, and you’ve since screened both nationally and internationally, so I’m curious to hear what’s been the various reactions from audiences at home and abroad. Have any big similarities and/or differences stood out to you? Premo: We set out to make an honest, no judgment, study of the people heeding the clarion call of “us vs. them” politics. Social movements with this outlook are winning elections around the world. Homegrown is at once a unique record of a transformative moment in US history, and an urgent sign of those to come.

That urgency is visible in the strong reaction we’ve gotten to the film in Europe, in places like Italy, Sweden, Greece, Germany, France, and Spain. (Starting at the Venice Film Festival in a country with a nationalist Prime Minister.) European programmers and broadcasters have been much more eager to encourage conversations. There is a palpable interest in discussing the future of democracy in a way we don’t see here in the US.

Americans can be resistant to reconciling with our history, whether that history is four years ago or 400 years ago. The US is not alone in cherrypicking versions of history that suit our interests at any give moment, but we certainly excel at that. And both conservatives and liberals seem like they’d prefer to forget the 2020 election and the unlearned lessons that continue to haunt us all. But the film is starting to get out there because it addresses so many questions people have about the uncertainty of this moment.

What are your ultimate hopes for the film, especially now that Trump will be back in the White House come January? Premo: The results of the election made the film even more relevant than it was. These days so many of us are so siloed in our bubbles that we rarely interact with anyone with different perspectives. This contributes to a pattern of reducing people who have differing opinions to one-dimensional caricatures. But people are complex. Systems of power are complex. When we reduce people to stereotypes, the proposed answers to our challenges become oversimplified.

Too often we define ourselves by our differences instead of understanding our similarities. I hope people walk away from this film with a taste of the nuance and complexity of people they might not agree with. People of all stripes wrestle with similar aspirations and frustrations. That suggests our disagreements and problems are not intractable. And that presents many opportunities for hope.

Conclusion

As “Homegrown” delves into the fabric of society, it opens doors to understanding and empathy. The film sheds light on the intricate layers of human experience and challenges viewers to confront their preconceptions. In a world of division, “Homegrown” offers a beacon of hope for unity and progress.

FAQs Section

1. What was the inspiration behind creating “Homegrown”?

The filmmakers were driven by a genuine curiosity to understand the dynamics of social movements rooted in “us vs. them” politics.

2. How has the film been received internationally?

“Homegrown” has sparked strong reactions in Europe, especially in countries like Italy, Sweden, Greece, Germany, France, and Spain, where there is a keen interest in discussing the future of democracy.

3. Why is the film particularly relevant in the current political climate?

The film addresses pressing questions about the uncertainty of the present moment, urging viewers to confront the complexities of societal issues.

4. What message does the filmmaker hope to convey through “Homegrown”?

The filmmaker aims to showcase the nuance and complexity of individuals with differing perspectives, emphasizing the common aspirations and frustrations that unite us all.

5. How does the film challenge viewers to rethink their perceptions?

By delving into the multifaceted nature of human experiences, “Homegrown” encourages viewers to move beyond stereotypes and embrace the diversity of thought.

6. What role does empathy play in the narrative of the film?

Empathy serves as a central theme in “Homegrown,” highlighting the importance of understanding and connecting with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

7. How does the film address the historical complexities of the United States?

“Homegrown” confronts the challenges of reconciling with America’s past, urging audiences to reflect on the lessons of history in shaping the present.

8. What opportunities for dialogue does the film present?

The film opens up avenues for meaningful conversations about democracy, societal divisions, and the potential for unity amidst diversity.

9. In what ways does “Homegrown” offer hope for the future?

By showcasing the shared struggles and aspirations of individuals, the film instills a sense of optimism and possibility for overcoming societal challenges.

10. How can viewers engage with the themes of “Homegrown” beyond watching the film?

Viewers can further explore the themes of the film through discussions, reflections, and engaging with diverse perspectives in their communities.

Tags

Cinerecap, Homegrown, Documentary, Social Movements, Politics, Democracy, Empathy, Complexity