The Century of the Self is a documentary TV show that examines the impact of Freudian psychoanalysis on society and the rise of consumer culture. It delves into the ways in which individuals' desires and behaviors are shaped and manipulated by corporations, governments, and the media. Through the lens of psychoanalysis, the series explores themes such as self-centeredness, individualism, propaganda, and the power dynamics at play in shaping public opinion.
A thought-provoking documentary that delves into the complex interactions between machines, technology, and society in the 20th century. It examines the impact of machines and their role in shaping the social, political, and economic systems, revealing the often hidden narratives and illusions created by these systems. Through archive footage and interviews, the series explores topics such as power dynamics, corruption, ideology, and the concept of progress.
The Power of Nightmares is a documentary TV show that delves into the role of fear in shaping political movements and ideologies. It explores how fear is used to manipulate public opinion, delves into the historical context of different movements, and analyzes their impact on society. The show highlights the hidden agendas and false evidence used to create a sense of threat and promote extremism. It also investigates the role of individualism, morality, and idealism in shaping political ideologies.
Pandora's Box is a TV show that delves into the intersection of Cold War politics and science and technology. It explores the societal impact of scientific advancements and examines the role of technology in shaping politics and economies. With a focus on rationalism and the scientific study of society, this TV mini-series takes viewers on a journey through the complexities of the Cold War era.
In 'Can't Get You Out of My Head', director Adam Curtis delves into the complex history of power dynamics, consumerism, and political revolutions through a thought-provoking exploration of events in the United States, Britain, China, and beyond. The series investigates the rise and fall of empires, the impact of technology and high-tech promises, and the influence of global politics on society. Through archive footage and insightful commentary, Curtis sheds light on the interconnectedness of world history and the forces that shape our present reality.
Experience the trauma and societal collapse during the time of the collapse of communism in Russia and the transition into democracy.
Strikes in Port Talbot spark a revolution – and a family of fugitives go on the run. Facing impossible choices, what would you do?
Follows the Driscolls, an ordinary family caught in between power struggles that forces them to leave the country they call home.
HyperNormalisation is a documentary that delves into the complex web of power politics and deception in the modern world. It explores various themes including conspiracy theories, technological advancement, sociopolitical commentary, and the struggle for power. The film takes a critical look at politicians, financiers, and the ruling class, examining their influence on global events. With a focus on timeframes spanning from the 1970s to the present day, it provides a thought-provoking analysis of key historical moments such as the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Arab world, and the financial crisis. HyperNormalisation also touches on topics like self-expression, property development, and the influence of figures like Henry Kissinger.
This series investigated the way that history and memory have been used by politicians and others.
When the 20th century opened, Britain dominated world affairs, and America stood on the sidelines. Now their positions are reversed. This is the story of how it happened.
Adam Curtis' short films from Charlie Brooker's Screenwipe and Newswipe programmes.
Bitter Lake (2015) is a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the intricate web of politics, manipulation, and control surrounding the conflicts in Afghanistan. With a focus on the Helmand Province, the film examines the oversimplification of the Afghan Civil War and its connection to September 11, 2001. Through a lens of fear and conflict-of-interest, it reveals the devastating consequences of the opium trade, the feedback loop of violence, and the role of the US in perpetuating the carnage. Bitter Lake exposes the influence of Gulf War politics, the arms industry, and financialization, shedding light on the impact of neoliberalism and the oil crisis. It uncovers the subterfuge, propaganda, and manipulation by Islamic fundamentalist groups and exposes the political myths perpetuated by the Big Lie. The film also explores the complex dynamics of assassination, the rise of Al-Qaeda and ISIS, and the role of crony capitalism. Through a lens of religious movements, it examines the theological doctrine, religious intolerance, and fundamentalism in ultraconservative Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia. Bitter Lake presents a compelling and eye-opening critique of the intertwined forces that have shaped Afghanistan and the global consequences of these events.
Short film for Vice Media about the illusion of stability, freedom, and prosperity in the West, comparing it to life in the Soviet Union during the 1970s. Ends with a trailer for HyperNormalisation.
Short film chronicling the transformation of mainstream media and the balance of political power in the last few decades by looking at how the role of the broadcast journalist has changed since the 1950s. Screened during the third episode of the fourth series of Charlie Brooker's Screenwipe.
In 1949, at the height of the Cold War, the British and American Governments decided to fight back at the growing Soviet Empire with a secret plan, the Albanian Subversion, in which the CIA and MI6 attempted to overthrow the Albanian government and to weaken the Soviet Union and the role of double agent Kim Philby.
This short film uses the history and figure of the Murdoch media empire as a vast invasive machine, to draw parallels to new media machines such as Google that are not only more invasive, but more pervasive than anything the Murdoch media empire has managed. Why are we not more concerned about this?
It Felt Like a Kiss is a documentary that delves into the themes of power, propaganda, and paranoia. It examines various historical events and cultural influences, such as the Cold War, the JFK assassination, and the space race, to reveal how these factors shaped the world we live in today. Through a mix of archival footage and interviews, the film exposes the hidden forces that have influenced society and explores the illusions and insanity created by those in power.
Short film using the paranoia of Richard Nixon to explore how a similar outlook on life has been propagated on a larger social scale in the new media age and the resulting moral panics and immobilisation of politics. Screen during the fourth episode of the second series of Charlie Brooker's Newswipe.
As we wait to see whether Rupert Murdoch will fall from power and lose control of News International, Every Day is Like Sunday tells the forgotten story of the dramatic downfall of Cecil King—the newspaper mogul who used to dominate British media in the 1960s, before Rupert Murdoch arrived.