Postcards From The 48%

Postcards From The 48% is a thought-provoking and earnest documentary that came out in 2018. It digs into the highly controversial and pivotal historical event of Brexit from the perspective of the approximately 48% of the UK population that voted against leaving the European Union in the 2016 referendum.

Renowned film and television scribe David Wilkinson exhibits both the director's and writer's role for this incredibly insightful piece of work. Yet, it’s not just the brainchild of Wilkinson but carries the perspectives of a fair percentage of the nation.

The film assembles a collection of voices that speak for these '48%'. The impressive line-up consists of esteemed personalities, including renowned actor Patrick Stewart, Miriam Margolyes, and musician and activist Bob Geldof among others, delivering riveting testimonies. These luminaries are interspersed with a seemingly eclectic mix of academics, business leaders, as well as ordinary Britons who talk about their apprehensions and reasons for wanting to stay in the European Union.

Each of the cast members provides their unique insight and perspective into Brexit’s implications. Many express alarm and desolation at what they perceive as a devastating alteration in course for the UK. In the manner of postcards, not only do they share their personal fears and concerns about Brexit but also their hope and passion for what they believe the European Union signifies.

Stewart, famous for his roles in Star Trek and the X-Men series, leads the film with passionate eloquence and earnest concern. His signature method of engaging dialogue conveys his staunch objection to Brexit. Miriam Margolyes, a beloved actress known for her roles in Harry Potter and other successful productions, brings her characteristic jocularity and lively wit to the serious issue. Noted musician and philanthropist Bob Geldof is recognised for his active engagement in socio-political issues, and his advocacy in this documentary comes through with disarming honesty and unambiguous concern.

Postcards From The 48% is an eye-opening journey across the UK and other parts of Europe. It conscientiously explores the widespread belief among many that the referendum might not have entirely informed the voting public of the far-reaching consequences of leaving the EU.

Notably, the documentary is not meant to aggrandize or continue propaganda against Brexit, but to humanize the experience by giving a face to the concerns of a significant number of people who voted in the referendum. It confronts complex emotional and political scenarios and manages to retain its empathic approach whilst discussing a highly divisive subject matter.

At its core, it is a human story that skillfully weaves in individual testimonies, unfolding shared fears, underlying uncertainties, and unyielding love for the UK and the EU's shared values. Yet, it never deters from the truth that this is a complex issue, with many viewpoints and conflicting interests at play.

The film cleverly crafts the narrative from those who wanted to retain EU membership, and rather than stirring debate, it primarily illustrates their side of the story. The use of 'Postcards' as a metaphor encapsulates each participant's individual feelings, fears, and perspectives. The idea is to engage the audience in an intimate dialogue about what Brexit means to them, what they feel was lost, and how they envision their future relationships with Europe and the world.

Postcards From The 48% is, more than a documentary, a heartfelt correspondence from a substantial segment of the UK to the rest of the world. It goes beyond political maneuvering and brings out raw and real human stories that highlight the multiplicity of realities within the Brexit narrative.

In conclusion, Postcards From The 48% is an engaging and thought-provoking documentary. It's a front-row seat to the hearts and minds of those who make up the '48%', emboldening the audience to explore a perspective that is often left behind in the heated debates surrounding Brexit.