Citizenfour

Citizenfour is a critically acclaimed documentary film that surfaced in 2014 and is available on Amazon Addon. This profound and daring piece of film-making is not just another documentary; it's an unprecedented glimpse into one of the most consequential whistleblowing events in modern history.

Academy Award winner Laura Poitras is at the helm of the film. Citizenfour is the third part of her post-9/11 trilogy, further enforcing her reputation as a fearless and thoughtful documentarian. Poitras, known for her incisive storytelling and thoughtful narrative approach, chronicles the unspooling drama with a deft hand.

Citizenfour unfolds as a dramatic thriller with an intense atmosphere but firmly planted in reality. As real events cinematic portrayal, the style of the documentary is raw, with an almost palpable tension that permeates each scene. It flips the script on the audience, causing us to rethink our definitions of privacy, security, and the public good.

The film's primary focus is Edward Snowden, the former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor who blew the whistle on the extent of U.S. government surveillance on its own citizens and people worldwide. In what can only be described as an unexpected twist of fate, viewers are granted access to the clandestine meetings that took place between Snowden, Poitras, and journalist Glenn Greenwald in a Hong Kong hotel room.

Citizenfour is unique because its cameras were rolling in real-time as Snowden decided to leak top-secret documents to the public, illuminating the NSA’s controversial practices. This element of the film provides a perspective to the audience that's rarely seen: the intimate and nerve-wracking moments leading up to a history-defining event.

Snowden, in addition to being the film's main subject, provides a narration of sorts. His calm, analytical demeanour provides a striking contrast against the colossal implications of the data leak. The film deftly explores the interiority of Snowden’s character while focusing on his extraordinary decision, humanising the man behind the headlines.

Whether Snowden is viewed as a hero or a traitor often depends on individual perspectives on national security and personal privacy. Citizenfour does not take an overt stand but rather offers an illuminating look into the realities of mass surveillance in the 21st century, prompting viewers to draw their own conclusions.

Away from the cloak-and-dagger intrigue, Citizenfour's narrative expands to broader horizons as well. Poitras includes experts' commentary and investigates the global implications of Snowden’s revelations, bringing our attention to several corners of the world. It’s a global story, extending beyond borders and facilitating important conversations around privacy, technology, and government interference.

The cinematography of Citizenfour only strengthens the film's narrative, painting a vivid, chilling picture of a world under pervasive surveillance. The film uses unconventional filming techniques, on-location shooting, and various other cinematic devices to deliver a deeply immersive and emotionally stirring viewing experience.

Citizenfour is not just a documentary—it's a gripping real-life thriller that sheds light on the landscapes of surveillance, privacy, and the lengths individuals will go to expose the truth. It's a reminder, too, that these stories are still relevant, still unfolding, and still influencing the world we live in. This film is an important discussion opener about how technology is so intricately woven into our lives.

The film received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and netted numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2015. Praised for its bold exploration of complex themes and its compelling storytelling style, Citizenfour has been acclaimed as a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that leaves an enduring imprint on the viewer.

Citizenfour is more than an engaging watch; it challenges viewers to contemplate and question the world around them. It is the kind of film that pushes the boundaries of its genre, leaving a profound impact. As real-life drama unfolds in front of the camera, you're drawn into an eye-opening journey that might permanently alter your perception of privacy in the digital age.