Michael Moore's newest documentary "Where to Invade Next?" hit UK screens on a limited release last week, coincidentally just in time for the referendum to determine the UK's future in the European Union. Moore's work has been both acclaimed and criticised, gaining admiration from many for his honest look at the problems with right- wing America while others have criticised his seemingly one-sided approach to his subject matter.
Moore's latest effort is exactly what you would expect from the socialist director. His work is always refreshingly enlightening, but this release in particular was filled with a subtle sense of optimism his previous works may not have had. The film follows the American's journey as he "invades" nations throughout the world seeking to take from them resources that the U.S. needs to better itself. As it transpires these resources are not physical objects like oil, but rather ideas and policies which Moore feels would make his nation great again.
I would highly recommend seeing this movie for a number of reasons. Firstly, the subject matter that Moore is explores here is so diverse that the film finds new ways to attract your attention throughout. There is no segment that stands out as a "dud" nor could I point out a moment through the two-hour run-time where the movie lost my attention. With the discussion points ranging from free-school meals to women in power, "Where to Invade Next" is a very consistently gripping journey across the globe. Secondly, Moore is an expert at invoking emotion in his audiences. His dry sense of humour is on full display here in what is perhaps his funniest picture yet, and there were times when his unique brand of cynicism and sarcasm literally made some of my fellow audience members double over in laughter. Yet, his humour is always juxtaposed with the more serious points he wants to make, making it easier for him to manipulate the audience into feeling anger, reprehension or even disgust at some of the images he includes points he makes on screen. More than simply an educational experience, "Where to Invade Next" is one that will stay with you well after you leave the theatre because of both the passion and wit of its director.
All things considered, It's good to see Michael Moore back doing what he does best after a brief four-year hiatus. The film's travelogue format means that it contains a plethora of subjects and stories, so there will at least be something that any individual watcher can get out of this documentary. Leaving you with both feelings of bitterness and hope for the future, "Where to Invade Next" is Moore back at the top of his game and hopefully he keeps making films as good as this for as long as he can. When and if he decides to retire, he would be a great miss to the world of documentary filmmaking.
Watch or Avoid: Strongly Recommend
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