Watch The Reluctant Radical

The Reluctant Radical is a documentary film that explores the personal and political journey of Ken Ward, an environmental activist who becomes increasingly radical in his approach to addressing climate change. The film follows Ward as he engages in non-violent direct actions targeting the fossil fuel industry, including breaking into pipelines and shutting them down.

Ward's activism is motivated by a deep sense of urgency to address the climate crisis and protect future generations. However, his actions put him at risk of severe legal repercussions, and he grapples with the potential consequences of his activism on his personal life, relationships, and career.

The film provides a candid look at Ward's thought process and personal struggles as he questions whether his actions are truly effective in creating change. Through interviews with Ward's friends and family, fellow activists, and legal experts, the film also examines the broader context of the climate movement and the challenges facing activists in a changing political landscape.

Despite the serious subject matter, the film is not without moments of humor and warmth. Ward's playful personality and wry sense of humor shine through, and the film also showcases the camaraderie and support among activists working toward a shared goal.

The Reluctant Radical offers a thought-provoking and timely exploration of the ethics and effectiveness of non-violent direct action as a tool for social and political change. It invites viewers to consider the role of individual action in addressing global issues and the importance of dialogue and collaboration in building a sustainable future.

Overall, The Reluctant Radical is an engaging and inspiring documentary that sheds light on the urgent need for action on climate change and the ways in which individuals can make a difference. Whether or not viewers agree with Ward's tactics, the film provides important insights into the motivations and challenges facing those at the forefront of the climate movement.

The Reluctant Radical is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.