Friday, February 12, 2010

Documentary Movie Review: Camp Fema

Movie Review: Camp Fema
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It was World War II and our nation faced an enemy that was percieved to be walking among us.

The response by the United States Government was to utilize the results from the Census to identify potential threats to our nation and create internment camps to house thousands of Japanese-Americans, including American citizens.

Fast forward 80 years. Our media and government point out how the war on terror includes the domestic front, including American citizens.

The latest film by filmmaker William Lewis and producer Gary Franchi looks at the lessons of history and examines current government programs and bills to simply ask about the possibility of the War on Terror could be used in such a way that would target political enemies of those in power in our nation and marginalize, criminalize and detain people who may disagree with the party line. Primary source documentation and testimony from several experts who have researched the modern political culture make a compelling argument that could frighten even the most avid skeptic.

Every so often we hear about the threat of Martial Law, however this film takes and in-depth look at recent political developments and asks the viewer to determine if there could very well be a dangerous path in store for this country if more people do not make civics education and accountability a priority in their lives.

From provisions of the Patriot Act (Which William outlined in his film, Washinton You're Fired), to government misuse of watch lists and threat reports, to quotes from our President about indefinite detention and a well funded "civilian" national security force, things begin to rhyme with history's worst actions in the name of "Nationalism."

While one hopes that we never have to worry about such a control grid, nor fear-mongering thereof, it becomes ever important when examining the current direction of the country and the way our government assesses what an enemy is, that we are able to continue to exercise our rights.

Information: When you first pop this DVD in, you think "Conspiracy Theory" but the relentless onslaught of informative content leaves you wanting more - 5 stars

Source Documentation: Clips from mainstream media, several constitutional researchers, and in your face screen captures of websites and government documents. - 5 stars

Presentation Method: One of the best parts of this film is a skit detailing a martial law force raiding someone's home. It is very entertaining, however, with a topic already struggling with legitimacy issues, it probably would have worked better as a dvd extra. Otherwise, the interviews and narration were flawless. - 4 stars

Visuals/Sound: Beautiful Graphics, seamless transitions, decent sound. - 5 stars

Political & Social Spectrum: This film confirms the fears of the conservative/patriot movement. Some of these things may have non-constitutionalists asking why they should care. Obama supporters will hate this film. - 3 stars

Solution, Constitution, or Pollution: Part Solution/Part Pollution. So you're afraid of Fema Camps, what next? There are several options at hand, and preparation is key, but so is Activism. While there is a great call to represent your values, it is a little fear based, and your left feeling that your fate relies solely upon your communication with your state legislature, although, some filmmakers would not give you that much. - 3 stars

Overall Wake-up-ability: This film suffers from the opposite of the "title misleading" problem most films have. No, the title is straight forward, unfortunately it's on a topic that avg. Joe dismisses as fear mongering. If you can get people to watch it, this film will change their outlook on the "good of Government" - 4 stars


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