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Synopsis Pressure Point - Inside the Montreal Blockade 76 mins and 52 mins, video, colour, 1999
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Zeroing in on the Montreal Blockade against the M.A.I. (Multilateral Agreement on Investment), this stunningly filmed 52-minute documentary chronicles a daring civil disobedience action against the increasing impact of globalization. Arms linked, using nothing but their bodies, the 100-odd activists block several entrances of a luxurious downtown Montreal hotel to prevent key M.A.I. proponents from attending a $1,000-a-plate international conference on finance. Without flinching, they face the onslaught of riot police, truncheons, and almost certain arrest, while several hundred supporters chant in the background. Later, there will be the sweet taste of victory when the pact is rescinded, following similar actions in other major centers. But more than an action film, Pressure Point is a revealing behind-the-scenes look at activism today. Focusing on four neophyte militants [left], the camera tells the story of the doubts and determination of Linda, a teacher, Sébastien, a social worker, Freya, an environmental worker, and her mother, Vivian, an artist, as they come to grips with the risks involved in confronting police, politicians and big business. It tracks the resolve on their faces as they go through non-violent civil disobedience training in preparation the upcoming confrontation with police. Reminiscent of the late 60s, yet dealing with the globalizing 90s, it is a story about how ordinary citizens can make a difference against seemingly impossible odds. |
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Original concept Direction Associate Direction Production Associate Production Images Sound Editing Production Distribution
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