USA – Democracy under attack – Press Lounge

For the first time since the founding of the USA almost 250 years ago, the country’s democracy and the rule of law appear to be under existential threat: The country is struggling with fundamental challenges that go beyond individual presidencies. The basic democratic principles are under enormous pressure – from the overwhelming power of the executive branch, questionable ethics of the Supreme Court and a media environment that is being severely tested by disinformation. The film looks back at the Trump era and the various attacks on basic democratic principles.

Oscar-nominated director Laura Nix (Walk Run Cha-Cha) examines some of the most extreme and important moments in the country’s history and speaks with renowned political scientists about them. This analysis is commented on by the sharp and humorous drawings of Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post cartoonist Ann Telnaes.

With black humor, the film examines the American promise of a multi-cultural democracy. To what extent could an authoritarian takeover threaten? Can the nation save its democratic ideals at a time when the parties and society are becoming increasingly radicalized and polarized?

A production of WDR / ARTE, RTBF, VRT & Clin d’oeil films in coproduction with a_BAHN, Ma.ja.de. Filmproduktion & Shelter Prod in collaboration with Real Lava & Motto Pictures.

Editor: Jutta Krug (WDR)