Watch This Divided State

This Divided State is a riveting documentary film that explores the intense political polarization that arose at Utah Valley State College in 2004, when the school's decision to invite liberal filmmaker Michael Moore to speak on campus stirred up a fierce controversy. The film, directed by Steven Greenstreet, follows the arguments and protests that arose on both sides of the issue, as well as the more personal stories of the individuals involved.

The controversy began in September 2004, when a student organization at UVSC invited Michael Moore to give a speech on campus. Moore was at the height of his fame at the time, having just released his controversial documentary Fahrenheit 9/11, which criticized President George W. Bush and his administration's handling of the War on Terror. However, many conservative students and community members saw Moore as a polarizing figure whose visit would only serve to divide the school's community further.

The film captures the intensity of the debate that ensued, revealing deep-seated political animosity and bitterness on both sides. Republican Utah Governor Jon Huntsman Jr. even weighed in on the situation, stating his opposition to Moore's visit. Meanwhile, Moore himself took the opportunity to visit UVSC before his speech and engage in conversations with students and locals on both sides of the debate.

One of the most striking things about This Divided State is the way it humanizes the individuals involved in the controversy, showing the personal toll that political conflict can take. The film follows a number of key players, including liberal student activist Kay Anderson, conservative talk radio host Jim Bassi, and UVSC student body president Sean Vreeland, as they struggle to navigate the complex web of emotions and ideologies at play.

Anderson is one of the most compelling figures in the film, a passionate and articulate individual who sees Moore's visit as an opportunity to bring important progressive ideas to a conservative campus. Bassi, meanwhile, is a fiery conservative who sees Moore as a threat to American values and free speech. Both Anderson and Bassi speak honestly about their frustrations and fears, revealing the deeply felt convictions that motivate them.

Ultimately, This Divided State is a fascinating window into the culture wars that have come to define American politics in recent years. It shows how deeply ingrained ideas about identity and ideology can be, and how difficult it is to find common ground in a polarized society. The film is a testament to the power of dialogue and the importance of engaging with those on the other side of the political spectrum, no matter how difficult that may be.

Overall, This Divided State is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in American politics and the challenges facing our society in the 21st century. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the power of ideas and the importance of free speech, and a poignant reminder that even in the midst of conflict, there is always the potential for understanding and reconciliation.

This Divided State is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 69.