Revolution of Our Times

A single spark can ignite an unquenchable blaze: that’s what the citizens of Hong Kong have proved in recent years. What began as a peaceful protest grew into a bitter clash between citizens and the authorities. Revolution of Our Times carefully traces how the situation escalated.

Broken down into nine chapters set in the period from 2019 to 2021, the film draws the viewer into the experiences of hundreds of thousands of demonstrators. The film’s director Kiwi Chow collected an immense quantity of powerful footage, using it to maintain a fast-paced narrative throughout two-and-a-half hours. While experts analyze the politics, the film zooms in on people on the front lines: from teens to seniors, from a Molotov bomber to a logistics strategist.

As time passes, this vast congregation of people gradually form their own society, one that is tightly organized and marked by camaraderie and commitment—against the backdrop of growing animosity, vigilante groups, and trigger-happy police. There are heartbreaking and desperate moments, but no matter how painful the setbacks, the fire will not be extinguished.