Wisconsin Rising

Wisconsin Rising is an insightful documentary film, first released in 2014. Directed by Sam Mayfield, this film seeks to chronicle and explore one of the most contentious moments in recent American political history – the battle in Wisconsin over collective bargaining rights for public workers. Over the course of its 56-minute run-time, Wisconsin Rising delves deep into the motivations of the people involved and paints a vivid picture of an impassioned grassroots battle that came to symbolize the changing face of American politics in the 21st century.

The film is centered around a remarkable period between 2011-2012, when Wisconsin became a battleground for democracy. The newly-elected Governor Scott Walker introduced a proposal (Act 10) to strip collective bargaining rights, drastically affecting public-sector workers. Walker argued that these changes would help address Wisconsin's budget deficit, but these propositions were seen as a direct assault on unions and workers' rights.

Wisconsin Rising does an excellent job of encapsulating the voices of numerous people who were on the frontline of these protests. Using a wealth of raw, candid footage, the film charts the rise of a popular uprising that saw educators, firefighters, nurses, and farmers among others flooding the state's Capitol building in protest. These individuals, galvanized by what they saw as an unprecedented attack on their rights and livelihoods, banded together in an extraordinary display of solidarity.

Beyond its raw footage, the documentary supplements the firsthand account with a series of interviews, featuring an array of politicians, public sector workers, union leaders, and ordinary citizens. These interviews help to emphasize the human element behind the headlines, presenting a personalized perspective on the political storm that was swirling around them. Additionally, Wisconsin Rising aims to provide viewers with an accurate portrait of the struggle, using these varying voices to explore the wider, national impact of the conflict along with its long-term implications for American democracy.

Yet, Wisconsin Rising is more than a history lesson; it is a chronicle of resistance highlighting how a community rallied together. Audiences are granted a front-row seat to the inspiringly tenacious display of democracy that the protest represented and the burgeoning of a grassroots movement against the backdrop of a snow-covered Madison.

Throughout the narrative, the film attempts to convey the emotional ebbs and flows of the prolonged fight. From the intense sit-ins and massive demonstrations to the solidarity sing-alongs, the film captures the full spectrum of emotions that the Wisconsin protestors experienced – including their jubilation, their frustration, and at times, their heartbreak. This comprehensive record paints a vivid, repeating portrait of what it means to struggle and fight for a cause, making for a compelling viewing experience.

Many thought-provoking themes are examined throughout the film including the influence of corporate money on politics, political polarization in America, and questions about the purpose and future of unions in a modern world. These themes permeate Wisconsin Rising, making it a film that achieves both sociopolitical relevance and emotional resonance.

While the film specifically covers the protests in Wisconsin, the story is universally relatable as it mirrors similar struggles worldwide where ordinary people stand firm against perceived injustices. Even non-Wisconsinites and viewers outside the United States would find a deeply human narrative at the heart of the film - one of resilience, commitment, and strength in unity.

On a technical level, Wisconsin Rising boasts compelling cinematography that enhances the viewing experience. The camera work, juxtaposing the harsh winter of Wisconsin with the warmth of communal struggle, sets a poignant backdrop for the story of grassroots protest to unfold.

In summary, Wisconsin Rising chronicles an extraordinary time in Wisconsin's history and serves as a testament to the power of collective action. It invites audiences on an illuminating journey through a pivotal moment in American public life, shedding light on the broader implications and tensions that coincided with it. Viewers are left with a lasting impression, encouraged to ponder the nature of democracy itself and to take a critical look at the forces that shape it.