Watch Beyond Elections: Redefining Democracy In The Americas

Beyond Elections: Redefining Democracy In The Americas is a documentary film that delves into the evolving concept of democracy in various Latin American countries. Released in 2008, this movie is directed by Sílvia Leindecker and Michael Fox and features interviews with renowned intellectuals and activists, including Eduardo Galeano, Amy Goodman, Martha Harnecker, and Naomi Klein.

The film provides an in-depth analysis of the democratic movements in Latin America, from the radical changes that happened in Venezuela under the leadership of Hugo Chávez, to the grassroots community initiatives in Brazil, and the Bolivian indigenous movements led by Evo Morales. The directors skillfully present the passionate voices of the people fighting against social inequality and oppression in their respective countries.

Through interviews and footage of grassroots movements, Beyond Elections highlights the critical role of participatory democracy in the fight for social justice. It is evident in the film that political change in Latin America was only possible through grassroots organization and participation, where ordinary people came together to demand their rights and opportunities, and to resist the foreign policies and economic power of larger countries like the United States.

One of the key points of the movie is the use of democracy beyond the act of simply voting in elections. The politics of Latin America is shown to be shaped by the people's struggle to achieve true democratic ideals. From the bottom up, the documentary explores the experiences of communities that work together to realize their social, economic, and political agendas.

Beyond Elections: Redefining Democracy In The Americas also explores the tension between the grassroots movements and the institutions of power. It covers the struggle for power and representation between the traditional ruling elites and the newly emerging leadership. The film explores the different ways in which the participatory democracy movement engages with electoral politics, while also presenting critiques of the electoral system's limitations and the complexity of instituting real change even in cases of overwhelming popular support.

The movie also delves into the challenges faced during the transition from a democracy that is more representative to one that is more participatory. How does a culture of people-centered democracy truly develop, and how can it be maintained beyond its initial formation? How can grassroots organizations establish meaningful partnerships with established institutions and avoid the pitfalls of the power structures inherent in such collaborations?

In conclusion, Beyond Elections: Redefining Democracy In The Americas is an informative and thought-provoking documentary that offers a critical view of democracy in the current political climate. It offers an alternative way of looking at democracy – not just as a political event that occurs every few years but also as a continuous process that requires the involvement of those who will benefit from its ideals. It showcases the transformative power of the people's movements in Latin America, which offers inspiring examples to advocates for a more participatory, equal and just society.

Beyond Elections: Redefining Democracy In The Americas is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 54 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.