Raoul Peck's Exploration of George Orwell's Relevance Today

Raoul Peck's latest film, _2+2=5_, delves into the life and works of George Orwell, drawing parallels between Orwell's observations on authoritarianism and contemporary political climates. Peck, a filmmaker known for his critical examination of societal issues, finds a personal connection with Orwell, particularly in the context of his own experiences with political oppression in Haiti.

The Guardian

Peck's interest in Orwell was rekindled through his research, revealing a figure who resonates with his own life experiences. He describes Orwell not merely as a distant English writer but as a "fellow traveller" who fought against injustice, much like Peck himself. Peck highlights Orwell's time in Burma, where he served as a colonial police officer, and his subsequent reflections on colonialism, which he articulated with remarkable candor. Peck notes, “He was denouncing the crimes of his own people and his own crimes. It took courage to do that so candidly.”

The Guardian

In _2+2=5_, Peck employs Orwell's own writings, narrated by actor Damian Lewis, to construct a narrative that intersperses historical footage with Orwell's insights. The film juxtaposes Orwell's concepts of "newspeak" and authoritarianism with modern political rhetoric, including references to Russia's military actions in Ukraine and the rise of populist movements globally. Peck asserts that Orwell's analysis serves as a "toolbox" for diagnosing contemporary societal issues, emphasizing that authoritarian tendencies can emerge from both the left and right.

The Guardian

Peck expresses concern over the fragility of democracies, particularly in the West. He draws attention to the erosion of democratic norms, citing examples such as Silvio Berlusconi's tenure in Italy and Donald Trump's behavior towards the media. He argues that the failure of journalists to collectively challenge such attacks contributes to the empowerment of authoritarian figures. “They don’t see that their own democracy is crumbling day by day,” Peck warns, highlighting the dangers of complacency in democratic societies.

The Guardian

Peck's reflections on democracy are underscored by his own political experiences as Haiti's minister of culture, where he witnessed firsthand the vulnerabilities of governance. He articulates a belief that societies often grant too much power to governments, which can lead to corruption and authoritarianism. His insights serve as a cautionary tale about the need for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions.

The Guardian

• “He left us with words that are today urgently necessary in a world of unapologetic ignorance.” — Raoul Peck, Filmmaker

The Guardian

• “I discovered an Orwell from the third world,” — Raoul Peck, Filmmaker

The Guardian

• “It doesn’t matter if it’s left or right: they both attack language, attack intelligence, attack justice, attack the press or try to dominate it.” — Raoul Peck, Filmmaker

The Guardian

• “They are so fragile,” — Raoul Peck, Filmmaker

The Guardian

• “If the whole room doesn’t stand up and leave, you’re giving him the power, because next time he knows that he can attack each one of you.” — Raoul Peck, Filmmaker

The Guardian

Peck's exploration of Orwell in _2+2=5_ serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Orwell's insights into power and language. By connecting Orwell's experiences and writings to contemporary issues, Peck urges viewers to reflect on the state of democracy today and the importance of remaining vigilant against authoritarianism.

The Guardian