Lessons in Dissent

Lessons in Dissent is a compelling documentary directed by Matthew Torne, charting the politically charged atmosphere of Hong Kong during the year of 2014. With its central characters being the impassioned school student Joshua 'Chi-Fung' Wong and teacher turned legislator Ma Wan Ke, the movie poignantly captures the steady escalation of peaceful activism into full-blown civil disobedience.

From the beginning of the movie, we are introduced to Joshua 'Chi-Fung' Wong, a charismatic high school student. Smart, articulate, and politically astute, Wong is seen as an unlikely figurehead for a protest against the Beijing Government's decision to enact a policy that will affect the right for universal suffrage in the city-state. Yet it's his youth and sincerity that inspire not just his counterparts but also people across generations.

Wong is shown to be the founder of the Scholarism group, a student protest group adamantly opposing the new Chinese national education program. Throughout the film, he leads the organization, staging protests and hunger strikes, employing methods of civil disobedience to fight for the right to a democratic and unbiased educational system.

Parallel to the story of Wong’s youthful activism is that of Ma Wan Ke, a former secondary school teacher who decided to give up his long-standing career to enter politics. His dedication and commitment to the cause of democracy in Hong Kong are just as profound, if not more, than Wong's. Ma, through the film, brings a different perspective to the scene of Hong Kong's activism, his experience and maturity providing a distinct flavor to the otherwise youth-powered movement.

The film eloquently juxtaposes these two characters’ lives, underscoring the universal struggle for democracy amidst different personal contexts. Moreover, Lessons in Dissent presents a balanced narrative by also featuring interviews with various supporters and critics of the protest, including teachers, parents, political exponents, and police officials.

The filmmaker, Matthew Torne, skillfully harnesses the power of the documentary genre, using it as a mode of schooling audiences around the globe about Hong Kong's political climate. Torne avoids being didactic, allowing both his protagonists and the unfolding events to narrate the story. The film employs elements of cinema-verite style, with often handheld, on-the-go cinematography that immerses the audience into the heart of the protest, making them feel the tension, the hopes, and the fervor of the people involved.

Music is another powerful tool used in the film, both to underline the dramatic moments and as an expression of the protesters’ emotions. Of interest is the use of the Scholarism group’s anthem, a rousing and catchy tune with lyrics speaking of freedom and hope.

The movie not only portrays the fight for democracy in Hong Kong but also explores the broader conversation around direct action and civil disobedience as legitimate means of protest. Through both Wong's and Ma's experiences, the film elucidates the sacrifices that come with activism, the costs of challenge, and the resilience often needed for change.

Lessons in Dissent presents a potent depiction of Hong Kong's political landscape during a crucial time. It captures not just the large-scale protests, but also the day to day struggles and victories of those who dared to dissent. The film, with its youthful energy and nuanced perspectives, is an engaging chronicle that presents the story of Hong Kong's fight for democracy to the world while asking pressing questions about the nature of activism and protest.

By the end of the movie, the audience doesn't just view Joshua Wong and Ma Wan Ke as emblematic figures in a protest, but as multi-dimensional characters who believe in their city's right to autonomy, choice, and expression. In the larger context, Lessons in Dissent serves as a wakeup call, a voice for democracy and freedom that needs to be heard outside Hong Kong, highlighting the universal importance of active citizenship and political freedom. It's a valuable lesson for all, embedded in an exciting, poignant narrative that leaves you inspired and pensive in equal parts.