Citizen Clark ... A Life of Principle

Citizen Clark … A Life of Principle is an extraordinary documentary that explores the life journey of Ramsey Clark, an incumbent lawyer, civil rights activist, and former U.S. Attorney General. Directed by Joseph C. Stillman and featuring high-profile celebrities like Martin Sheen, the film provides a comprehensive picture of Clark's passionate dedication to human rights, equality, and the concept of justice.

The movie opens with a brief overview of Clark's early years, shedding light on how he was brought up in a family with a strong social conscience, which undoubtedly influenced his future path. Clark was born in the midst of the great depression, and his transition into politics was not accidental but the perfect amalgamation of his upbringing and personal beliefs. His father, Tom Clark, served as Attorney General under President Truman and later became a Supreme Court Justice. The high moral standards and democratic principles imparted by his father played a significant role in molding Ramsey Clark into the man he became.

Citizen Clark … A Life of Principle meticulously chronicles Clark's ascension to the role of U.S. Attorney General under President Lyndon B. Johnson. He quickly became known for his staunch commitment to civil rights. This was a time of great upheaval in America, punctuated by the civil rights movement, anti-war protests, and social unrest. Despite the chaos, Clark proved to be a steadying influence, using his political power to push for landmark legislation that would ultimately change the landscape of American civil rights and liberties forever.

However, the core of the movie lies not only in Clark's accomplishments as Attorney General but also in his subsequent work as a civil rights attorney and activist, tirelessly advocating for various social justice causes. This section of the film features interviews with Martin Sheen, a leading Hollywood figure and long-standing activist who has worked with Clark on numerous controversial cases. Through these candid conversations, we gain an insightful look into Clark's modus operandi. He was fearless in representing and defending those who were deemed by many as indefensible – even notorious figures accused of serious war crimes, acts of terrorism, and various human rights violations.

Through archival footage and personal testimonies, the film paints a thought-provoking portrait of a man winning admiration and respect from some quarters while attracting firm disapproval and criticism from others. The film sensitively handles this dichotomy in Clark's life, highlighting his unwavering belief in the tenets of democracy and justice.

Citizen Clark … A Life of Principle features an impressive cast of interviewees, including notable figures such as former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, and several legal scholars. They offer rich perspectives on Clark's life – his principles, his motivations, and his unwavering dedication to upholding the rights of every citizen, no matter their position, reputation, or offense.

The film also delves into Clark's crucial role in the formation of International Action Center, an NGO dedicated to opposing U.S. military intervention overseas. The fact that he co-founded this organization in his late sixties underscores his perpetual commitment to justice and peace, neatly reflecting his character even in the twilight of his career.

Citizen Clark … A Life of Principle isn't your typical documentary. It's an exploration of a man's lifelong devotion to the principles of genuine democracy, truth, justice, and equality. It offers an inspiring narrative about social justice, human rights, and political bravery, all through the lens of one man's remarkable journey.

Stillman has managed to create an engaging and evocative documentary that is both emotionally and intellectually resonant. Citizen Clark … A Life of Principle is a compelling film that focuses not only on an individual's life journey but also on the broader landscape of human rights and civil liberties in the United States.

The saga of Citizen Clark … A Life of Principle is one of courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment to justice – the story of a man who fought tirelessly against institutional malpractices and served as a vocal champion of the downtrodden, disenfranchised, and maligned. His legacy continues to inspire, demonstrating that every life – no matter how controversial – is deserving of justice. This movie beautifully showcases a lifetime of courage, compassion, and most importantly, principled living.