Just Do It: A Tale of Modern-Day Outlaws

Just Do It reports on several actions of the UK-based environmental activist group Climate Camp (CC), as cameras follow members who organize and carry out actions against corporate and other entities that are perceived to be posing environmental threats, including the Royal Bank of Scotland and the G20 at its 2009 London summit. Protests are planned as carefully as military strikes, with a similar level of secrecy—during outdoor meetings “Campers” remove batteries from their cell phones, use code words, and assign tasks based on who is “arrestable” (willing to be jailed). Typically, members form human barriers, chaining themselves to fences, super-gluing their hands together, or using bike locks to attach themselves to buildings or each other. Having studied the statistical data in advance, designated spokespersons are ready to lay out the facts when the media arrive. Director Emily James not only had unprecedented access to Camp planning sessions, but was able to film extensively on site as protestors were waylaid by police using varying degrees of force. Interspersed throughout are comments from passionate participants, who reinforce the sense of determination and outrage. One activist, asked if CC's actions do any good, says they're empowering, if nothing else. The production closes with onscreen titles listing positive outcomes in areas where CC was most active during filming. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)