The Emperor's New Clothes
Dir: Michael Winterbottom
2015
****
It's fair to say that Russell Brand isn't to everyone's liking but like or dislike him, he's got something very important to share in this political documentary. He's no Michael Moore, some of his experiments are a little bit lost in the film and others are downright pointless but he does explain the facts regarding our financial crisis clearly and concisely, so that everyone can understand the hows, whys and the importance of direct action. There is a rather flawed argument that suggests that because Brand is wealthy his views aren't sincere, which is a little bit like saying that able-bodied people can't defend the disabled, which is of course ridiculous. Brand is very open about being in the 1% and makes light of it. To be fair, without boasting or even mentioning it in the film, he's put his money where his mouth is in recent years and has supported many people and projects within poorer communities. He seems genuinely concerned about the people he grew up with and clearly remembers where his roots are. I don't always find him funny and have taken umbrage with comments he's made in the past but it is important to look past him and listen to the facts. This isn't about him, it is about everyone. He makes some very strong points and makes some interesting comparisons. He compares the treatment between some of the London looters of 2011 and the bankers involved in illegal deals that lead to the financial crisis in 2007. Both did wrong, and this isn't denied, but Brand asks why is it that bankers can steal millions of pounds and get away with it and others steal only shoes and receive up to 12 months. He's got a strong point. He's preaching to the converted in some cases but more importantly is that he's informing some that may not know the truths of what is going on. He's speaking to the common man and he does so in a clear and balanced manner with an essence of humour that actually makes it far easier to understand. I think he and Michael Winterbottom have made an important and insightful documentary that people should give due credit to.