Uncounted: The New Math of American Elections

Uncounted: The New Math of American Elections is an intriguing documentary that delves deep into the complex and often controversial realm of American politics. Released in the buildup to the 2008 United States Presidential Election, the film offers a critical examination of the voting system by highlighting some of the perceived flaws and challenges critics argue might challenge the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.

Directed by David Earnhardt, Uncounted brings together an impressive ensemble of influential figures from the political arena, including Representative John Conyers, computer programmer Clint Curtis, attorney Bob Fitrakis, and investigative journalist Brad Friedman. Together, they illuminate the grave concerns about potential manipulation of electronic voting machines, and the seemingly systemic dismissal of such concerns by policy makers.

Energized by Conyers' dynamic presence, dug into the foundation of the issue; systematic disenfranchisement and marginalization of voters. U.S Congressman from Michigan, Conyers has been an instrumental force in the struggle for civil rights and electoral reform in America. He is presented in Uncounted not only as an empathetic figure but one robust on the dissemination of factual information.

Clint Curtis, a computer programmer, provides a fascinating perspective on how the integrity of the electronic voting system could potentially be compromised. Curtis presents a chilling narrative of how voting software could be manipulated to produce desired results, therefore putting the credibility of the democratic process in question.

Meanwhile, Fitrakis, a lawyer and political author, brings a legal perspective to the table, discussing the susceptibility of the system to fraud. As an election protection attorney in Ohio, he holds vital insights into the nuances of the voting system. Friedman, an alternative media journalist, offers a unique take on the situation. Known for his fact-finding and investigative reporting, Brad provides a journalistic angle to the narrative, anchoring the commentary in substantial research and unbiased facts.

The documentary is also defined by vivid interviews with 'ordinary' voters who have experienced disenfranchisement. Their personal accounts create an emotional intensity and resonance that underscores the film's premise with highly personal experiences. Their stories are heart-rending and remind us that at the core of the political machinations are real people, whose right to have their voices heard can be undermined by bureaucracy and technological misconduct.

Uncounted constructs a comprehensive portrayal of the American electoral system. It does so through an eclectic combination of analysis, debate, raw footage from election nights, courtroom hearings, press conferences, and computer animation. The film makes excellent use of graphic imagery, contrasting the idealistic concept of 'one person, one vote' against the reality of the election system, where votes can seemingly be discounted, miscounted, or manipulated. It thereby produces a provocative analysis of the discrepancies between the principle of democracy and its practice.

However, Uncounted isn't just a critique - it is an urgent call-to-action for American citizens, urging them to be vigilant and protective of their democratic rights. The solutions it suggests, like voting by paper ballot and performing random audits of electronic voting results, serve to underline its crucial message: the proper functioning of the democracy rests in the hands of its citizens.

Earnhardt masterfully brings this range of viewpoints and narratives together to form a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the American political system. With its incisive storytelling, vivid interviews, comprehensive scope, and underlying optimism, Uncounted: The New Math of American Elections provides a much-needed examination of the obstacles faced by ordinary citizens attempting to exercise their democratic rights, and the potential changes needed to ensure that every vote is counted.

With its breadth and depth of subject matter, Uncounted promises to remain relevant long past its 2008 release, providing crucial commentary on the state of American democracy. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of the American electoral system and the crucial role of voting in upholding the pillars of democracy.