5 Left-wing Films (Part 1)
The cinema, apart from being a cultural expression, is a political expression, even if it is not a theme of the plot, since it is a dissemination of the values and ways of life of the country in which the artistic work is generated. With the dominant pattern being the vision of the Western world, this takes its maximum expression with American cinema, to the extent that Lucien Gauthier pointed out in Le XX siècle en 20 chapitres, in the magazine of the Parti des travailleurs in La Lettre de la Vérité, Paris, that during the reconstruction of Western Europe, led by the United States with the so-called Marshall Plan, the following happened:
“During the signing between Léon Blum and the American Secretary of State Byrnes of an economic aid agreement from the United States, a clause stipulated the establishment of a minimum quota for the screening of American films in cinemas!”
The objective was twofold: economically, to generate more business by distributing its film production; politically, to support the ideological battle for the “American way of life” against the powerful organizational tradition of the working class in Western Europe. (Arrizabalo Montoro, Xabier; Capitalismo y Economía Mundial; 2009:293).
Being already aware of the weapon that cinema can be, let’s use it to our advantage: we now land on our list of movies. I’ll tell you that this first list will be a bit of a mix of more bearable films, of the standard type we are more accustomed to in Hollywood cinema, and something a bit stronger, to introduce ourselves to the world of left-wing political cinema. I reserve future lists including films by Ken Loach, although for this first one, Bertolucci will not be missing. I hope to start awakening your consciences.
1. Captain Fantastic (2016)
Directed by Matt Ross, *Captain Fantastic* is an emotional journey that follows Ben Cash, masterfully portrayed by Viggo Mortensen, and his peculiar family as they live in nature, away from modern society. The film explores themes of alternative parenting, education, and the pursuit of true happiness in a materialistic and conventional world. With a refreshing and provocative approach, *Captain Fantastic* challenges social norms and invites us to question our own beliefs about what it means to live a full and authentic life.
I recommend starting with this movie to begin awakening the social conscience, fantastic references to Noam Chomsky in this film.
2. Mondays in the Sun (2002)
This Spanish film, directed by Fernando León de Aranoa, is an honest and moving portrait of a group of unemployed workers in northern Spain. The film follows their lives as they struggle to find meaning and dignity amid desperation and unemployment. Through complex characters and realistic situations, Mondays in the Sun offers an intimate look at the daily struggles of those who fight to maintain their humanity and hope in difficult times.
It is important to know that the historical context of this film moves in the period after the industrial reconversion that took place in Spain in the 1980s, which destroyed much of the country’s productive and industrial fabric. In those 80s, Spain had an Industry Minister named Carlos Solchaga who is attributed the famous phrase: The best industrial policy is the one that does not exist! You can imagine the economic disaster that a government (from the wrongly named Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party) caused in Spain by destroying its own industry following the dictates of Germany for its inclusion in the EU.
3. 1900 (1976)
Directed by the acclaimed Italian director Bernardo Bertolucci, *1900* is a cinematic epic that spans several decades and follows the lives of two friends, Alfredo and Olmo, portrayed by Robert De Niro and Gérard Depardieu, respectively, in an Italy divided by social class and politics. The film examines the struggles and aspirations of the characters as they navigate a world marked by injustice and oppression. With an epic narrative and stunning cinematography, *1900* immerses us in an emotional journey that questions power structures and reminds us of the importance of the fight for freedom and justice.
There are two epic scenes in this movie, one is the self-mutilation performed by a peasant and the other is the death, in a figurative sense, of the figure of the landlord, which does not involve the death of the person himself. I recommend watching this movie last because it is quite difficult to watch and very long, it is in two parts.
4. One Hundred Steps (2000)
Directed by Marco Tullio Giordana, One Hundred Steps is a poignant portrait of life and the struggle against injustice in Sicily, Italy. The film tells the story of Peppino Impastato, a young political activist who bravely challenges the local mafia and fights for freedom and democracy in his community. Through his courage and determination, One Hundred Steps shows us the transformative power of resistance and commitment to the ideals of justice and freedom.
There is a song by Modena City Ramblers (I Cento Passi) that is beautiful and is a tribute to Peppino Impastato and the wonderful film, but I recommend listening to it after watching the movie if you don’t want to receive SPOILERS.
5. Pride (2014)
Directed by Matthew Warchus, Pride is an inspiring story based on real events that follows a group of LGBTIQ+ activists who come together to support striking miners during the 1980s in the United Kingdom. The film celebrates solidarity, diversity, and the power of collective activism to promote social change and equality. With a stellar cast and a moving script, Pride reminds us of the importance of unity and the fight for freedom and justice for all.
I especially recommend this one; solidarity among collectives is our strength.
We hope you enjoy watching these movies as much as we enjoyed writing about them!
If you’ve watched these movies, leave a comment down below. Remember that you can watch these movies and many more on Stremio. If you don’t know what Stremio is, I’ll leave you a guide:
