Watch Zapatista

Zapatista is a 1999 documentary film that provides a first-hand account of the rise of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN), a revolutionary group that emerged from the Southern Mexican state of Chiapas on January 1st, 1994. The film was directed by Benjamin Eichert and produced by Big Noise Films. The Zapatistas are a group of Indigenous farmers and teachers that rose up against the Mexican government's neoliberal policies, which they argue took away their land, their way of life, and their culture. The Zapatistas' struggle has become an international symbol for the fight for human rights, and their influence has been felt around the world. The film provides an introduction to their cause, history and political philosophy.

Zapatista captures the spirit and ideals of the Zapatistas, who maintain a fiercely independent and anti-authoritarian stance. The film features interviews with key figures in the movement, including Subcomandante Marcos, a spokesperson for the group who covers his face and personifies the Zapatistas in the news. The voices of members of the Zapatista community are also prominently featured, as are those of sympathizers, journalists, and activists.

The film boldly tackles the topics of Indigenous rights, social justice, and democracy, and the connections between them. It reflects on the legacy of colonialism and imperialism in Latin America, as well as the alliances and tensions between different social movements. The film also touches on the influence of the US government and transnational corporations, who played a significant role in shaping the Mexican government's policies.

Zapatista is not only an insightful analysis of the Zapatistas' struggle, but also a tribute to their remarkable resistance and courage. The film documents the Zapatistas' refusal to accept the ways in which neoliberalism has affected Indigenous peoples and the world's most vulnerable people. It speaks to their dreams of creating a more egalitarian and just society.

The filmmakers paint a vivid picture of the Zapatistas' community, showing how their struggle is grounded in the land and their cultures. The film highlights the Zapatistas' creative approach to resistance, from their use of poetry and art, to their recruitment of women and Indigenous leaders as spokespersons. The Zapatistas' belief in the power of popular movements inspires the characters in the movie to take to the streets and fight for justice.

In terms of cinematography, Zapatista is visually stunning, capturing the beauty and richness of the Mexican landscape. Lush green jungles, cascading waterfalls, and ancient ruins serve as the backdrop for the movement's reality. The soundtrack, which ranges from traditional Indigenous music to revolutionary anthems, also evokes the richness of Zapatista culture and traditions.

The film is moody and contemplative, as well as thought-provoking and inspirational. Zapatista poses a series of questions about human rights, power, and the role of individuals in social change. It encourages viewers to think critically about the systems that govern our world, and the possibilities for a better future.

Zapatista's appeal extends beyond history buffs and political activists. Anyone who appreciates a well-crafted, thought-provoking documentary that's both heartbreaking and empowering will enjoy this film. By showcasing the bravery, determination, and accomplishments of the Zapatistas, Benjamin Eichert's documentary delivers an insight into a conflict largely forgotten by the world's media, exploring the roots of global struggles against inequality, social injustice and violence, and their failure to address the needs of the poor and deprived.

In conclusion, Zapatista is a documentary that takes audiences on an eye-opening journey into the heart of a revolutionary struggle. It is a stunning cinematic testament to the courage, wisdom and dignity of the Zapatista movement, and to all those who fight to create a better world.

Zapatista is a 2000 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.