ICELAND, ON THE TRAIL OF DEMOCRACY, 58min., Switzerland
Directed by Steve Vilhem
The Icelandic revolution, also known as the “Pots and Pans Revolution”, occurred in October 2008 in Iceland. It was rooted in the context of the subprime financial crisis when, in less than a month, the country’s three main banks declared bankruptcy. From this protest emerged an unprecedented process: the drafting of a new Constitution based on participatory democracy, which utilized methods such as random selection, online participation, citizen debates, elections, and more.
Get to know the filmmaker:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
The journey to creating “Iceland on the Trail of Democracy” began with a deep-seated civic engagement, sparked by the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo attacks in 2015. This event compelled me, alongside a group of students from diverse academic backgrounds, to dive into society’s pressing issues through a series of debates. Our quest for a deeper understanding of democracy led us to the “Pots and Pans Revolution” in Iceland—a pivotal yet underrepresented moment in the quest for participatory democracy. Our motivation was to shed light on this unique democratic process, aiming to stimulate a broader reflection on democracy’s essence and its continuous evolution within the European context.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
From its conceptualization to the final cut, the film took approximately six years to complete. The journey began with the seeds of an idea following the 2015 Charlie Hebdo attacks, leading to extensive planning, research, and finally, the on-ground exploration and filming in Iceland. We did the shooting in 2016, then we had a break (from 2017 to 2019) and we started the editing process in 2019 to 2023. This timeframe allowed for a thorough examination of the subject matter, ensuring a film that not only narrates events but also delves into the intricacies of Iceland’s revolutionary stride towards a more inclusive democracy. It also took time, as first-time filmmaker, to recruit a team and to find fundings.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
“Democratic Awakening”
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
One of the most significant challenges we faced was the complexity of capturing the essence of democracy on film—a subject that is both abstract and deeply nuanced. Balancing the need to remain faithful to the multifaceted reality of Iceland’s democratic revolution, while ensuring the film remained accessible and engaging to a broad audience, required a meticulous approach to storytelling and visual presentation. Additionally, navigating the logistics of filming in a foreign country, including coordinating with local participants and managing the practical aspects of production, presented its own set of hurdles.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Witnessing the audience’s reactions was moving; it underscored the film’s impact and its ability to resonate on a personal level. Observing viewers engage with the film’s themes, question their own democratic environments, and express a renewed interest in participatory democracy was both validating and inspiring. It was a reminder of the film’s capacity to spark dialogue and encourage a deeper contemplation of democracy’s role and potential in our societies.
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
My passion for filmmaking emerged during my early engagement with the Kino Session association in Bordeaux, around 2012. Although my foundational background is in medicine and anthropology, the storytelling power of film to explore, challenge, and articulate societal issues deeply resonated with me. This realization was not a sudden epiphany but a gradual awakening to the potential of cinema as a medium for expressing my civic engagement and academic interests in a creative and impactful way.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Without a doubt, “Life of Brian” by Monty Python. Its unique blend of humor and social commentary, wrapped in a historical satire, resonates deeply with me. The way it playfully challenges societal norms and questions authority, all while making you laugh out loud, is nothing short of genius. The Python’s ability to weave thoughtful messages into comedic brilliance is something I admire and aspire to in my own storytelling. Plus, living in Switzerland, the film’s irreverent spirit feels particularly rebellious—a fitting choice for someone surrounded by mountains and, occasionally, the need to question the status quo.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Creating more spaces for interaction and dialogue between filmmakers, audiences, and critics can significantly enhance the festival experience. Workshops and panels that delve into the craft of filmmaking, discussions on the intersection of cinema with social and political issues, and networking events to foster collaborations would be invaluable. Additionally, mentorship programs linking emerging filmmakers with experienced mentors could provide critical guidance and support for those at the beginning of their careers.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Working with FilmFreeway has been a seamless and intuitive experience. The platform’s comprehensive approach to the festival submission process, coupled with its accessibility and user-friendly interface, made it an invaluable tool in navigating the complex landscape of film festivals. Its role in democratizing access to film festivals, allowing filmmakers from diverse backgrounds to share their work, cannot be overstated.
10. What is your favorite meal?
As a current resident of Switzerland, my favorite meal has to be raclette. There’s something incredibly comforting and communal about melting cheese and sharing food around a table with friends. It’s a meal that brings people together, fostering a warm, convivial atmosphere. And let’s not forget the endless possibilities of accompaniments! Potatoes, pickles, onions—it’s a veritable feast.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I hope the journey doesn’t stop with “Iceland on the Trail of Democracy.” Inspired by the profound experiences and insights gained from this project, I’m currently embarking on a more ambitious endeavor: a documentary series exploring the multifaceted expressions of democracy around the globe. Each episode will delve into different manifestations of democratic engagement, from the grassroots movements to the more formalized democratic systems, similar to the Swiss model, that incorporate direct participation at various levels. This series would aim to illuminate the complexities, challenges, and beauty of democracy’s continuous evolution. By capturing these diverse narratives, we hope to foster a deeper, nuanced understanding of what democracy can mean across different contexts and cultures, echoing the need for constant dialogue and reflection on this ever-pertinent issue.
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