LONDON (Bywire News) - Santiago Rising - The new documentary by Nick MacWilliam (88 minutes, Alborada Films)
*Press screener available from 9 January 2021*
Synopsis of film
Santiago Rising takes place on the streets of Chile’s capital city in late 2019, as large public protests over economic inequality engulf the country.
The film charts the build-up to the historic vote, in October 2020, that saw Chileans vote for a new people’s constitution to replace the one imposed during the brutal Pinochet dictatorship. It examines how a movement which began as a high school students’ protest over transport fares evolved into one of the most significant events in the country’s history.
Filmed during the weeks after protests began, Santiago Rising meets social movements, protesters and ordinary people in their struggle for equality and human rights.
The film emphasises the creative element of Chilean protest, as music and art play a prominent role in expressing political dissent. We also see the state’s attempts to crush the protest movement through a brutal police crackdown.
Although the odds are stacked against them, Chileans find strength in unity as they aim to overcome Pinochet’s enduring legacy.
'Chile's elected governments which followed Pinochet kept the economic model in place: they were largely happy with the anti-trade union laws, the anti-environmental laws, the indigenous discrimination.' Santiago Rising director Nick MacWilliam.
Where to watch?
Tickets available via Eventbrite - CLICK HERE
*25% of ticket proceeds will go to Los Ojos de Chile (The Eyes of Chile), a foundation to support some of the hundreds of victims of eye injuries committed by Chilean police during protests*
For more information, including screening links and interviews, contact info@santiagorisingfilm.com
You can also follow Santiago Rising on Facebook and Twitter.