This Revolution

"This Revolution" is a thought-provoking 2005 film directed by Stephen Marshall, starring Rosario Dawson, Nathan Crooker, and Amy Redford. This controversial movie draws parallels between the political climate of its time and the American Revolution, hence the title "This Revolution."

The story centers on Jake Cassevetes, played by Nathan Crooker, a network cameraman who is disillusioned with the media industry and struggling to find meaning in his work. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is tasked with filming the heavily-protested 2004 Republican National Convention in New York, which serves as the backdrop of the plot. Mutually haunted by war - Cassevetes by a tragic incident during his time as a war correspondent and the city of New York by the ghosts of 9/11 – the blend of uncertainty and resistance forms the mood of the film.

Rosario Dawson skillfully portrays Tina Santiago, a fiery single mother and widow of a 9/11 firefighter, who has her own distinctive take on the political turmoil happening in the city. Her character carries a potent narrative within the storyline which attempts to highlight the voices that are often underrepresented in discussions on politics and social reform - the women and mothers affected by these larger than life events.

Amy Redford plays Chloe, a television reporter who used to be romantically involved with Jake, a subplot that adds an additional layer of complexity to Crooker's character. Her return causes Jake to re-evaluate his priorities and views on the very industry both of them share – the one he is disillusioned with. This romantic tension and past brought forward in the movie delves deep into the concepts of morality and personal responsibilities beyond mere professions.

"This Revolution" is a cinema verité-style work, with real documentary footage interwoven with the fictional storyline. This gives a realistic touch to the political drama, further emphasizing the state of unrest and change. It seeks to shed light on the American political climate in the early 2000s and draws parallels with the events that kickstarted the American Revolution, adding a historical perspective to the plot.

The portrayal of the controversial 2004 Republican National Convention - complete with its protests, arrests, and uprisings - is far from sugarcoated. Through the eyes of a cameraman and a concerned civilian, the film uncovers the capitalist game of the media industry, its manipulative tendencies, and the pressure it puts on its staff, ultimately raising many ethical questions for the audience to ponder.

The characters of the film are forced to grapple with the dilemma of political affiliation, personal beliefs, and professional duties. As the plot progresses, these dilemmas leave a heavy impact on the paths the characters choose and the decisions they make, painting a realistic portrait of individuals dealing with extraordinary circumstances.

The director masterfully explores themes of war, media manipulation, personal loss, and heavy political drama through characters who are deeply flawed and relatable. Marshall uses the background of an already tense city at the brink of yet another political uproar as a canvas to paint a panoramic view of the USA's challenging contemporary issues.

"This Revolution" provides thought-provoking perspectives on democracy, dissent, and the impact of individuals on a larger political landscape. With intense performances, nuanced character development, and a firm grip on reality thanks to documentary-style filmmaking, the movie delivers a unique viewing experience - one that urges its audience to question, rethink, and empathize. From start to finish, "This Revolution" offers an insider's view into the turbulent state of American politics and its complex implications on the citizens, making it a must-watch for those interested in political dramas.