Ken Loach Warns of Missed Unity as ‘Your Party’ Falters Amid Rising Far-Right Threats

Ken Loach, the 90-year-old British director, said the left-wing movement “Your Party”, founded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, has become mired in infighting, squandering a historic chance to unite the left against the far right. He called the behaviours “very poor” and warned the missed opportunity weakens progressive resistance.

The Guardian

Loach linked split to his film *Land and Freedom*, which follows a British communist in Spanish Civil War and argues left-wing divisions caused defeat. He noted film’s 4K restoration and Cannes screening, saying its themes of racism, division and insecurity are urgent as far right reappears in a new guise.

The Guardian

The movement drew 800,000 sign-ups—three times a size—under founders Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, MPs. Loach, expelled from Labour in 2021, cited Labour leader Keir Starmer and Manchester mayor Andy Burnham. He has 15 Cannes entries, two Palme d’Ors, and screenwriter Paul Laverty serves on Cannes jury.

The Guardian

Loach warned parties echo far-right language, citing Conservative Farage rhetoric and Labour right. He criticised Keir Starmer’s “fatal flaw”—poor communication, and argued establishment blames poor while wealthy donors fund right-wing movements. Loach said cinema cannot detach from politics: “the difficulties people face are determined by political choices we have available.”

The Guardian

Filmmaker Wim Wenders argued that directors should keep politics out of cinema, a stance Loach described as disappointing.

The Guardian

Loach argues Your Party’s failure to mobilise its 800,000-strong base weakens resistance to a far-right resurgence that uses rhetoric. Film’s themes of racism, division and economic insecurity reflect a Europe where scapegoating fuels panic, and outspoken artists risk repercussions. Stakes underline need for left-wing cohesion.

The Guardian

• “There was great hope when Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana joined forces; 800,000 people expressed interest – that’s three times the size of a political party,” — Ken Loach, Director

The Guardian

• “But I’m afraid some of the behaviours were very poor and they lost a historic opportunity.” — Ken Loach, Director

The Guardian

• “The split on the left was very important to explore in the film. It contributed to the defeat in Spain.” — Ken Loach, Director

The Guardian

• “I was very disappointed to see my friend Wim Wenders say film-makers had to stay out of politics,” — Ken Loach, Director

The Guardian

*Land and Freedom* will screen on Tuesday in Cannes’ Cinéma de la Plage strand, with Loach attending. The event is expected to spark further discussion about left-wing organization and the responsibilities of artists confronting far-right ideologies.

The Guardian