Cast: Misan Harriman Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara
This Oscar-nominated filmmaker travels the globe capturing defining protest movements. We get to see various pivotal historical moments brought to life, from the struggle in Palestine, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the legacy of apartheid in South Africa. Sadly we also see the murder of George Floyd in 2020.
Harriman sits down for conversations with Martin Luther King III, son of the legendary civil rights leader and also reflects on one of his own greatest heroes, South African photographer and anti-apartheid activist, the late Peter Magubane. The documentary also explores what it truly means to bear witness to struggle, and how an image can shape history, challenge power, and pass the torch of resilience from one generation to the next.
For me, this work stands apart because it never tries to shock just for effect. Instead, it builds a steady, thoughtful case that will touch your soul. As a black man, I recognise the stories and struggles laid out here – and I feel my voice carries the perspective of the many who understand this reality deeply. Some have observed the film sits somewhere between biography, social commentary and career portrait. Admittedly it could have gone even deeper at points, but even so I found it deeply informative and genuinely educational.
This heart-warming documentary lays out the history and ethics of visual activism with clarity and compassion, so that anyone watching can grasp the full weight of the issues at hand. Most importantly, it is an absolute eye-opener, revealing layers of systemic challenge and personal responsibility that are too often hidden away, or brushed aside by those in positions of power.
This isn’t just a documentary to watch; it is one to carry with you, work that succeeds in broadening how we see the world and testing our own conscience. I definitely recommend this as an essential watch, which should trigger many public conversations.
Shoot the People is currently in a limited number of selected cinemas, and will then be available on Apple TV Store and Just Watch.
About the Author
