Greatest Films on Revolution and Protest

Description: A powerful depiction of the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule, showcasing the guerrilla warfare and the uprising in Algiers.

Fact: The film was banned in France for five years due to its political sensitivity. It was used by the Black Panthers for training in urban guerrilla warfare.

Description: This epic biographical film chronicles the life of Mohandas K. Gandhi, focusing on his non-violent protests and leadership in India's independence movement.

Fact: The film was shot in India with over 300,000 extras. Ben Kingsley won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Gandhi.

Description: This film recounts the harrowing experiences of a Cambodian journalist during the Khmer Rouge regime, highlighting the struggle for survival and freedom.

Fact: The film was shot in Thailand and Cambodia, with real-life survivors of the Khmer Rouge playing extras. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards.

Description: This film follows the young Che Guevara on a transformative journey across South America, which shapes his revolutionary ideals.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Argentina, Chile, and Peru, retracing the actual route taken by Guevara. It was the first film to be shot in the Amazon rainforest.

Description: This film explores a dystopian future where a masked vigilante known as "V" seeks to overthrow a totalitarian regime, inspiring a revolution through his acts of defiance and his famous speech about ideas being bulletproof.

Fact: The film's iconic mask has become a symbol of protest movements worldwide. The character V was inspired by the historical figure Guy Fawkes.

Description: While not directly about a revolution, this film portrays the rise of Idi Amin in Uganda, offering a backdrop to the political upheaval and resistance against his regime.

Fact: Forest Whitaker won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Idi Amin. The film's title refers to a book Amin claimed to have read, which he believed was about him.

Description: Set in a dystopian future, this film follows Katniss Everdeen as she becomes the symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol, sparking a revolution across the districts.

Fact: The film's salute, known as the "three-finger salute," has been used in real-world protests. The story is loosely based on the Roman gladiatorial games.

Description: This adaptation of Victor Hugo's novel captures the June Rebellion of 1832 in Paris, focusing on themes of justice, love, and revolution through the lives of its characters.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Paris, with the cast performing live singing on set. It was the first musical film to be entirely recorded live.

Description: This film follows a British volunteer in the Spanish Civil War, showcasing the ideological battles within the Republican side and the broader fight against fascism.

Fact: The film was shot in Spain, with many scenes filmed in the actual locations of the historical events. It was inspired by the experiences of British volunteers in the International Brigades.

Description: Set during the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, this film explores the personal and political conflicts that arise from the fight for freedom.

Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It was controversial in the UK for its portrayal of the British forces.