The Activists

Melanie Shemtov's documentary looks at modern political activists, focusing on the role they play in the shaping of policy and public opinion. Inspired by the landmark protests of the Civil Rights movement and the anti-Vietnam War movement in the 1960s and the push for women's rights during the early 1970s, today's activists found their voices in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, as the George W. Bush presidency steered the nation into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Not unlike the protestors from decades past, this new breed of activists employed marches, rallies, slogans, and signs to voice their outrage at the Bush administration's endeavors. The Activists highlights many military veterans who joined movements, which served to lend demonstrations a sense of seriousness. Oddly, the film flirts with sending the unintended message that rallies and protests are a waste of time: the new activists were unable to shift the government's focus away from waging wars in distant lands, and they were unimpressed with Barack Obama's willingness to keep the fighting raging, albeit at a much lower level. Also featuring interviews with longtime activists Tom Hayden and Leslie Cagan, the film is already somewhat dated, as the rise of Donald Trump has brought about a new wave of political protests that show no signs of abating. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)