The New Radical

The New Radical is an engaging documentary from 2017 which throws light on the fringes of radical libertarianism in America in the digital age. Directed by Adam Bhala Lough and starring Cody Wilson, Raymond Frontain and Rob Walker among others, this documentary focuses on several fascinating and controversial topics such as the complex issue of online freedom, crypto-anarchy, 3D-printed guns, and the narrative of the cypherpunk movement.

Cody Wilson, an integral figure within these discourses, is one of the protagonists. Wilson shot into the limelight or rather, notoriety, with his creation of the 3D-printed gun and his stand on information/technology democratization. A non-conformist vehemently opposing any form of control over information or technology, Wilson weaves a fascinating narrative of his battles against government agencies and his constant strive towards ensuring that information is freely available to all. This self-styled crypto-anarchist's firm belief and unapologetic attitude make him a compelling subject for exploring the scope and limits of libertarian philosophy.

Raymond Frontain, another significant person featured in the documentary, is a cypherpunk activist advocating for encrypting private communications, decentralizing the web, and broadly, keeping technology away from the hands of the government. His intent to subvert and disrupt existing systems in his quest for idealistic liberty stands as an embodiment of the Cyberpunk movement, of which he is a staunch advocate. His unflinching stance and radical notions are equally intriguing as well as disturbing.

Rob Walker, the third main character in the film, is shown as the opposing force. As a public official, his job lies in upholding the law and ensuring that disruptive activities, such as those engaged in by Wilson and Frontain, do not undermine public safety. His perspective offers a balancing contrast and gives us a glimpse into the challenges faced by those trying to maintain order in an increasingly chaotic digital landscape.

'The New Radical' delves into complex and controversial issues regarding freedom of information, encouraging viewers to question and perhaps even reassess their own understanding of what freedom really means in the digital era. The film takes an unflinching look at the libertarian fight for less governmental control over individual liberties and demonstrates how technology exacerbates the tension between law enforcement and civil rights activists.

The director, Adam Bhala Lough, skillfully explores these layered themes through a kaleidoscope of perspectives, combining interviews, news footage, and coverage of key events. Viewers are invited to draw their own conclusions and form their own opinions amidst the nebulous distinctions between disruptive innovation, anarchy, and criminal mischief operating within the framework of these discussions.

What is worth noting is that while dealing with such sensitive issues, the film doesn’t attempt to vilify or lionize its subjects. Instead, it holds up a mirror to the contradictions and complexities of today's digital society with an unsettling clarity. It teases out compelling arguments from all sides, refusing simplistic narratives or answers.

The question of whether these pioneering libertarians are dangerous anarchists subverting government control, or freedom fighters navigating the uncharted waters of the digital age, is left out in the open. It brilliantly captures the tension between traditional law enforcement and the radical, disruptive force of technological libertarianism. It also raises profound questions about what the future of freedom might look like in a world rapidly evolving due to technology.

In conclusion, The New Radical is a provocative and stimulating documentary that pushes viewers to critically examine the complex role of technology and the internet in society. It invites robust discussions on the freedom and control of information, the disruptive force of technology, and the libertarian philosophy in an increasingly interconnected digital age. This is a film that refuses to dilute the complexities of these dialogues, opting instead to plunge viewers into the thick of these turbulent issues to decide for themselves where they stand.