Anarchist, Political, and Social Films to Watch

Description: A gripping depiction of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule, this film is a study in urban guerrilla warfare and the clash between colonial powers and indigenous resistance movements.

Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style, using real locations in Algiers, and was banned in France for several years due to its sensitive subject matter.

Description: This satirical drama critiques the media's role in shaping public opinion and the anarchic potential of television broadcasting when a news anchor goes rogue, exposing the industry's underbelly.

Fact: The film's famous line, "I'm as mad as hell, and I'm not going to take this anymore!" has become a cultural touchstone for expressing frustration with the status quo.

Description: While not explicitly about anarchism, this film follows the journey of a young Che Guevara, whose experiences shape his political ideology, leading him towards revolutionary ideals.

Fact: The film was shot on location in several South American countries, retracing the actual route taken by Che Guevara and Alberto Granado.

Description: This film explores the concept of anarchism through the story of V, a masked vigilante who seeks to overthrow a totalitarian regime in a dystopian future Britain. It's a powerful narrative on resistance against oppression and the fight for freedom.

Fact: The film was adapted from a graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd, and the mask worn by V has become an iconic symbol of protest worldwide.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of the Red Army Faction, a radical left-wing militant group in Germany, offering insights into the motivations behind their violent acts against the state.

Fact: The film was based on a non-fiction book by Stefan Aust, who had personal connections to some of the group's members.

Description: This thriller follows an undercover agent infiltrating an eco-terrorist group, examining themes of corporate greed, environmental activism, and the moral complexities of direct action.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life groups like the Earth Liberation Front, and its director, Zal Batmanglij, also co-wrote the screenplay with Brit Marling, who stars in the film.

Description: A documentary capturing the Egyptian revolution of 2011, focusing on the protests in Tahrir Square, it provides a firsthand look at the struggle for democracy and against authoritarian rule.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, highlighting its significance in documenting a pivotal moment in modern history.

Description: This film delves into the psyche of a man who becomes an agent of a fascist regime, exploring themes of conformity, identity, and the personal costs of political allegiance.

Fact: Bernardo Bertolucci's film is known for its stunning cinematography and its complex portrayal of political and personal betrayal.

Description: A documentary that explores the Weather Underground, a radical left-wing group in the U.S. that used bombings to protest against the Vietnam War and racism, reflecting on the ethics of political violence.

Fact: The film includes interviews with former members of the group, providing firsthand accounts of their actions and motivations.

Description: Set in East Germany, this film examines the surveillance state and the personal transformation of a Stasi officer, highlighting the oppressive nature of totalitarian regimes and the human desire for freedom.

Fact: The film won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2007, and its depiction of surveillance has been compared to modern-day concerns about privacy.