A deep dive into ‘Homegrown’: Unveiling the complexities of American democracy
A new documentary sheds light on political activism
Director Michael Premo‘s latest documentary, “Homegrown”, offers an unfiltered look at the political landscape during the 2020 U.S. election cycle. Premiering at the Venice Critics’ Week, this film provides a raw and intimate portrayal of a divided America, focusing on the lives of three right-wing activists.
The journey of ‘Homegrown’
“Homegrown” follows these activists as they campaign for Donald Trump, hoping to build a movement that will endure beyond his presidency. The documentary captures their journey from the summer of 2020 through the tumultuous aftermath of the election, where they take to the streets, convinced that the election was stolen.
Michael Premo, who not only directed but also produced and served as the cinematographer, offers a unique perspective on the erosion of democratic norms in the United States. He states, “In the 21st century, democracies die, not with a bang, like a military coup, but with a whimper, as faith in the idea is eroded from within.”
A fractured democracy
Premo’s documentary delves into the complexities of American democracy, highlighting how democratic norms have been steadily eroding since the mid-1990s. He points out that a growing number of people are losing faith in the system’s ability to protect their interests, resorting to violence and the threat of violence to fight for their beliefs.
Premo emphasizes the importance of understanding these individuals and their motivations. “Too often we define ourselves by our differences, instead of trying to understand our similarities,” he says. “These days, so many of us are siloed in our own self-selecting bubbles that we rarely interact with anyone with different perspectives.”
The importance of nuanced understanding
Premo argues that reducing people to stereotypes only leads to stereotypical solutions. He believes that to build a pluralistic democracy, we need to have a nuanced understanding of all the people in our society. “We felt it is important to actually talk to the people heeding the clarion call of us vs them politics,” he adds.
Filming across America
The documentary was shot across multiple locations, including Salt Lake City, New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, Portland, and Washington D.C. Premo and his team started filming in 2018 and continued until the fall of 2021, capturing these unprecedented events as they unfolded.
Watch the first clip
For a glimpse into this compelling documentary, you can watch the first clip here.
Reflections on ‘Homegrown’
As a cinema enthusiast, “Homegrown” offers a profound exploration of the current political climate in the United States. It challenges viewers to look beyond the surface and understand the deeper issues at play. The documentary’s raw and unfiltered approach provides a unique perspective on the complexities of American democracy.
For those interested in political documentaries, “Homegrown” is a must-watch. It not only captures the events of the 2020 election cycle but also delves into the motivations and beliefs of the individuals involved. This film is a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and empathy in a divided society.
Final thoughts
“Homegrown” is more than just a documentary; it’s a call to action. It urges viewers to look beyond their own perspectives and engage with those who hold different beliefs. By doing so, we can begin to bridge the divide and work towards a more inclusive and understanding society.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the Homegrown page.
MetFilm Sales is handling international sales for “Homegrown”.