Beyond Elections

Beyond Elections is a stunning documentary film that deconstructs the conventional understanding of democracy, and challenges it by delving into it from a broader perspective. Directed by Michael Fox and Sílvia Leindecker, the film wrestles with the conventional definition of democracy, pushing beyond the idea that it simply implies voting in elections, and instead probes into a more comprehensive, participatory and community-based concept.

The film spans across nine nations in South America, North America, Europe, and South Africa, presenting a first-hand panoramic view of how democracy functions at different levels of society - from the grassroots to the higher echelons of governance. The narrative elegantly oscillates between these diverse geopolitical climates, shedding light on the varying degrees and ways of citizen participation in democratic processes.

Central to the global journey of Beyond Elections is the country of Venezuela, which serves as the framework for exploring different modes of governance and popular participation. The film depicts the work of local community councils that provide platforms for individuals to decide on issues concerning their neighborhood directly. Community-oriented projects, including neighborhood clean-up efforts, educational initiatives, and public health campaigns, are decided upon and funded through these councils.

Beyond Elections further takes us to Brazil, where we encounter the “participatory budgeting” concept enacted mainly in the city of Porto Alegre, where citizens play a procurement role, deciding how the city's budget should be allocated. This democratic experiment exhibits how a city's population can be engaged directly in policy making, consequently enhancing transparency in the public sector and refining civic consciousness and responsibility.

Keeping in line with this theme of participatory democracy, the film leads its audience to further corners of the world where such unique democratic practices thrive. In Argentina and Uruguay, for instance, the narrative explores citizen-led movements and successful recovery of factories formerly abandoned that now are worker-managed. In the United States, the film depicts a fascinating initiative where parents and teachers collectively run schools, empowering stakeholders to directly influence the education system.

On the other end of the spectrum, Beyond Elections heightens viewer awareness by delving into the topic of politics of fear in Colombia. It showcases the dichotomy where, despite living under the shadows of paramilitary violence and volatile politics, indigenous communities and social movements continue to strive for a voice. This compelling contrast highlights the stark reality of citizen participation in dangerous and unfriendly political environments.

Directors Michael Fox and Sílvia Leindecker have made use of an impressive array of materials to enrich the narrative. Interviews with scholars, leaders, politicians, and everyday people comprise a significant portion of the film. Archival footages, on-the-ground coverage—which includes demonstrations, community meetings, factory tours, school visits—are used effectively to create an immersive experience. The use of local music as part of the soundtrack fosters cultural resonance, anchoring each scenario in its specific cultural reality.

One key aspect of Beyond Elections is its thrust to raise questions and evoke conversations rather than offering clear-cut solutions or assertions about what democracy should look like. The film interrogates various democratic models with an inquiry - "What is democracy?" - and encourages audiences to revisit their understanding of the term. It critically examines and juxtaposes the effectiveness of these models, questioning the level of power and participation truly enjoyed by ordinary citizens in shaping their own societies.

At the same time, the film does not shy away from exploring the challenges and disappointments that accompany these endeavors. It acknowledges that while participatory democracy is a noble and appealing ideal, its practical implementation can be fraught with difficulties and drawbacks. But it also suggests that it is precisely the act of engaging with these challenges that makes democracy a vibrant, continually evolving social experiment.

In essence, Beyond Elections is a thought-provoking and provocative exploration of the concept of democracy as it is perceived and practiced around the world. It offers a kaleidoscopic view of democratic systems outside the usual scope of elections —from grassroots projects in local communities to policy-making processes at a governmental level— thus challenging and expanding our established definitions of democracy. This documentary is a visual journey across the globe that makes us rethink democracy, participation, and power, enlarging our view beyond the ballot box.