As the United Kingdom stands on the brink of yet another leadership change, it's impossible not to reflect on the seismic event that was Brexit. A decade ago, the nation's decision to leave the European Union sent shockwaves through British politics, and the repercussions are still being felt today.
Enter Norma Percy, a veteran documentary filmmaker, who has crafted a compelling account of this tumultuous period in Brexit: A Very British Civil War. With unprecedented access to key players on both sides of the debate, Percy offers a unique perspective on one of the most divisive issues in recent British history.
The Making of a Documentary
What makes this documentary particularly fascinating is the level of access Percy and her team were granted. From former Prime Minister David Cameron, who initiated the EU referendum, to influential figures like Boris Johnson, Michael Gove, and Nigel Farage, the film provides an insider's view of the decision-making process.
One of the most intriguing aspects is Johnson's revelation that his decision to back Brexit had nothing to do with his ambition to become Prime Minister. This contradicts the widely held belief that he was using Brexit as a stepping stone to power. As Percy describes it, Johnson's interview was a window into his inner turmoil, with his hair getting messier as he grappled with this momentous choice.
Another pivotal moment captured in the documentary is George Osborne's economic case for remaining in the EU. Osborne's argument, which aimed to terrify Tory MPs into supporting Remain, backfired spectacularly. Within an hour, he lost the support of 50 backbenchers, effectively ending his chances of leading the Conservative Party. This sequence highlights the unpredictability of politics and the fine line between success and failure.
Reconstructing History
Percy's approach to documentary-making is unique. She focuses on reconstructing the events as they unfolded, almost like a historical detective. By asking simple, chronological questions, she encourages her interviewees to relive and recount their experiences, providing a first-hand account of the Brexit saga.
The fact that Percy's films often become the definitive records of major events adds an extra layer of significance to her work. As she puts it, contributors know their words will stand the test of time, becoming a part of history.
However, there are always those who decline to participate. In this case, it was Dominic Cummings, the influential Campaign Director of Vote Leave, who remained elusive despite the filmmakers' best efforts. His absence leaves a gap in the narrative, a reminder that not all perspectives can be captured, no matter how hard one tries.
Looking Ahead
With Brexit: A Very British Civil War now complete, Percy's sights are set on another complex and controversial figure: Donald Trump. She acknowledges the challenges of documenting a subject who is constantly in motion, but she remains confident that the time will be right to tackle this project.
In my opinion, Percy's work is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking. It allows us to delve into the hearts and minds of those who shape our world, offering a deeper understanding of the decisions that impact our lives. Brexit: A Very British Civil War is a must-watch for anyone seeking to unravel the complexities of this historic event.
