Brexit Behind Closed Doors

Brexit Behind Closed Doors is a revelatory political documentary that came out in 2019. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Lode Desmet, the documentary provides an unfiltered, inside look into the Brexit negotiation process that took place between the United Kingdom and the European Union (EU). It features headlining personas of European politics such as Guy Verhofstadt and Michel Barnier, who played instrumental roles in the negotiations.

In this eye-opening two-part documentary, Guy Verhofstadt, the European Parliament's Brexit Co-ordinator, and Michel Barnier, the European Union's Chief Negotiator, serve as our chief protagonists. Following them, the film constructs a detailed, behind-the-scenes narrative of Brexit. From deliberations to diplomatic disputes and carefully considered decisions, Brexit Behind Closed Doors offers an immersive journey into this historic European and British negotiation.

Expressively, what sets this documentary apart is its intimate, 'fly-on-the-wall' perspective of an immensely complex and high-stakes process. This unique viewpoint enables the viewer to see beyond the political posturing and headline-grabbing narratives often promoted by mainstream media. It transports the audience into the front row of these negotiations, which dictated the future relationship between the UK and the EU.

Across the two episodes, the viewer is drenched in the uncertainty, tension, frustration, and occasional humor that unfolds within this negotiation process. The documentary essentially humanizes the process. It shows politicians, civil servants, and diplomats engaging in passionate discussions, heated arguments, emotional moments, and displaying their own personal biases and fears. This unique and rarely seen view into the political machinations provides a genuine understanding of the Brexit negotiations' intricate complexities.

Guy Verhofstadt emerges as the central focus of the film. As the Brexit coordinator appointed by the European Parliament, he led the negotiation team that interacted with the British representatives. The documentary provides a candid portrayal of this charismatic statesman, emphasizing his ardent European spirit and commonsensical approach to the mammoth task in front of him. The film uses the lens of Verhofstadt to explore the delicate art of negotiation and the almost surgical precision required to navigate such a nuanced conversation.

Michel Barnier, on the other hand, is showcased as a strategic and meticulous leader, bringing his extensive experience to the table. His integral role as the EU's Chief Negotiator adds another depth to the negotiations, portraying him as the bedrock of Europe's approach to Brexit.

Brexit Behind Closed Doors weaves a narrative as well from the Brexiteers' viewpoint. It balances itself, rather than leaning too heavily into the viewpoint of the EU, offering an impartial view on the events. Whether it was the efforts of Nigel Farage and his team or other prominent Brexiteers, the documentary shows their determined attempts to ensure the UK's smooth separation from the EU.

A salient feature of the documentary is its unhurried pacing, which reflects the reality of political negotiations - fraught with delays, setbacks, and ambiguity. Such pacing not only allows the audience to absorb the magnitude of what's occurring, but it also underlines the gravity of the situation.

Brexit Behind Closed Doors also takes into account the various macro and micro elements at play in such negotiations. It shines a light on aspects like the importance of public perception, the role of media narratives, national and regional politics, popular sentiment, and the interplay between different agencies. In doing so, it delivers a lucid depiction of a convoluted procedure wrapped in layers of bureaucracy, political strategy, and emotional sensitivity.

This documentary is as much an exploration of Brexit as it is a deep dive into modern European politics. It is an intricate dissection of diplomatic conversations and intricate maneuvering, one that offers viewers an education in the art of negotiation and the power play inherent in key decision-making processes.

As a factual, insider account of one of the most defining political events of the 21st century, Brexit Behind Closed Doors serves as a powerful resource for those seeking to understand the multifaceted nature of international politics. It takes intricate political matters assembled behind the camouflaged corridors of power, and translates them into a language that viewers can comprehend. This documentary is an essential watch for anyone with a pulse on global politics or a curiosity about the inner functioning of prominent international events.