Waking the Sleeping Giant: The Making of a Political Revolution

Waking the Sleeping Giant: The Making of a Political Revolution is a timely and relevant documentary film that warrants the attention of anyone interested in contemporary American politics. Released in 2017, it features powerfully engaging insights from political figures including Bernie Sanders and notable personalities like Kai Newkirk and Sabrina Shrader. It is an impactful piece that digs deeper into the socio-political scenarios prevalent in the latter half of the last decade.

This hard-hitting documentary sets out to chronicle the political awakening brewing in America during the years leading up to the 2016 elections. Indeed, “Waking the Sleeping Giant” presents an in-depth exploration — a “behind-the-scenes” view, if you will — of the structural issues facing the American political system and the movements that sought to change the status quo.

The film offers an exclusive look into the life and work of Kai Newkirk, a leading figure in the fight against political corruption. Newkirk, co-founder of Democracy Spring, an organization that advocates for campaign finance reform, sheds light on significant aspects of political activism, illuminating the power and importance of collective action and grassroots campaign efforts in the battle against systemic corruption.

One of the most recognizable figures featured in the film is none other than Senator Bernie Sanders. His renowned “political revolution” and bid for the presidential nomination become primary focal points in “Waking the Sleeping Giant.” The film delves into Sanders' progressive agenda, his more equitable and inclusive vision for America, and examines the reasons why his message resonated so powerfully with many people, particularly the young and disenfranchised.

The film also focuses on Sabrina Shrader, a resilient and determined woman from the coalfields of Appalachia. Shrader’s personal journey, from living in poverty to running for the West Virginia legislature, is not only heart-rending but highlights the broader struggles people face in regions often overlooked by mainstream media and politicians.

Policy issues, such as income inequality, money in politics, racial justice, and climate change are at the heart of the narrative in “Waking the Sleeping Giant.” The film does a commendable job of framing these complex subjects within the personal narratives of its subjects, assigning a human face to issues too often relegated to statistical analyses and partisan spin.

Shot over the course of the tumultuous 2016 presidential primary season, the film succeeds in capturing the emotional fervor and widespread sentiment of disenchantment and hope that characterized this period in American politics. The documentary does not shy away from showing the political divisions within the nation, often diving headfirst into heated political rallies and spirited debates, revealing the raw emotions of everyone involved. It gives viewers a glimpse into the hearts and minds of not just the activists, but everyday Americans whose lives are deeply affected by the political decisions and consequences that stem from it.

“Waking the Sleeping Giant,” however, does not stop at merely narrating these events. Its true power lies in its rallying call — an exhortation to American citizens to seize control of their political future, defy inequality and injustice, and participate more fully in the democratic process. It drives home the importance of community organization, collective activism, and increased civic participation in shaping the political landscape of the country.

More than just a document of its time, “Waking the Sleeping Giant: The Making of a Political Revolution,” is a forward-looking piece of documentary cinema. It dares to question the status quo, and in doing so, emboldens viewers to do the same.

Regardless of political affiliation, this documentary provides a potent commentary on the climate of modern American politics and serves as an illuminating perspective on the struggles and triumphs of various Americans committed to effecting change in their society. It encapsulates both the frustration and hope prevalent within the grassroots political movements that consist of citizens vehemently working to fashion their democratic destiny, thereby waking the proverbial sleeping giant.

Whether you were actively engaged in political events during this historic period or simply want to understand the complexities of contemporaneous American politics, “Waking the Sleeping Giant: The Making of a Political Revolution” is a must-watch documentary.