No is an interesting political film, based on real events in 80s Chile. A referendum was held, giving citizens the choice between dictator Augusto Pinochet (Yes/Si) or hold democratic elections (No). Each side is given 15 minutes a day to air campaign advertisements. René Saavedra is hired to lead these productions for the No side, but has unconventional ideas. What if they sold democracy like a product on TV? Happiness, music videos, comedy, unrelated images...along with exposure of censorship and war crimes.
Its an odd approach, and morally questionable. Even if it works, is it an ethical path to democracy? Is it what the lowest-common-denominator deserves? Its a fascinating analysis on the human psyche. It amazed me that these ridiculous, 80s-cliche videos were actually on TV. Its well-acted, and portrayed the era well. However, I thought they spent too much time on René, especially with his family. I didn't feel anything towards his ex-wife and kid. His actions outside the studio don't particularly contribute to his character. I wish they spent more time on the creation of the ads and the politics. Heck, it could have been cut out, as I think the 2 hour film is kinda slow.
I don't love it, I don't hate it, it was alright. If you like the genre, sure. Its a one-and-done for me. I'd have preferred a true documentary.
Its an odd approach, and morally questionable. Even if it works, is it an ethical path to democracy? Is it what the lowest-common-denominator deserves? Its a fascinating analysis on the human psyche. It amazed me that these ridiculous, 80s-cliche videos were actually on TV. Its well-acted, and portrayed the era well. However, I thought they spent too much time on René, especially with his family. I didn't feel anything towards his ex-wife and kid. His actions outside the studio don't particularly contribute to his character. I wish they spent more time on the creation of the ads and the politics. Heck, it could have been cut out, as I think the 2 hour film is kinda slow.
I don't love it, I don't hate it, it was alright. If you like the genre, sure. Its a one-and-done for me. I'd have preferred a true documentary.