The tumultuous moment in which idealism runs into reality

Generation Revolution

Image by Generation Revolution

Tumultuous: that’s how a young London activist describes the moment he “learns that the kind of characteristics that are inherent in dirty politicians” can happen within progressive political movements too.

Naïve? Yes, but honest and raw, and that’s the strength of the activists in the documentary Generation Revolution, and of the film itself.

It follows two groups: the London Black Revs (no, I won’t make the obvious joke: everyone’s made it already) and R Movement as they take on a raft of issues, including anti-rough sleeper spikes outside a Tesco branch; a Westfield die-in; gentrification in Brixton; Conservative cuts; Black Lives Matter; and food and toiletry packages for people on the streets.

The activists are impressive: a sincere, thoughtful bunch in their late teens and early 20s who try to think through their actions and who are, for the most part, clued up on the protocols of protest.

But half-way through the film they get a jolt. A crowd tries to press into Brixton police station and is scattered by Mace-spraying officers. The incident sparks concerns about the group’s methods and targets, criticisms are made of the leader, who in turn expels the members. Statements and counter-statements are drafted.

It’s like a satire on the rifts that seem inevitably to occur within small leftist groups, comic but painfully earnest.

The film observes these twists and turns, recording what’s going on but maintaining affection and honesty and positivity.

+ 9 Nov, Picturehouse Central + 12 Nov, Stratford Picturehouse + 17 Nov, Hackney Picturehouse