Upcoming Documentary: “Orwell: 2+2=5”

Peck’s latest project, “Orwell: 2+2=5,” is set to premiere in the Cannes Film Festival’s Première section next month. This documentary, created in collaboration with the Orwell estate, focuses on George Orwell’s final months and the enduring impact of his work, particularly his seminal novel “1984.”

Significance of Orwell’s Warnings

During a masterclass at Visions du Réel, Peck expressed a poignant connection between Orwell’s insights and present-day political realities. He remarked, “I was talking about Orwell – his ‘Newspeak.’ Words don’t mean anything anymore. Science doesn’t mean anything. There’s no truth – there are ‘alternative facts.’” This statement encapsulates his concerns about a world where truth is increasingly questioned and manipulated.

Peck highlighted his own experiences as a child who fled the Duvalier regime in Haiti, recognizing familiar signs of authoritarianism in current global politics. He stated, “They dismissed anyone who wasn’t an outspoken supporter of the new regime,” drawing parallels between history and the current political climate.

Critique of Contemporary Filmmaking

In a conversation with Variety, Peck criticized the current documentary landscape, emphasizing the challenges faced by independent filmmakers due to market pressures and changes in funding. He noted, “ It’s becoming harder and harder to get funding without strings attached,” reflecting on the impact of political administration on funding for diverse voices in cinema. Peck further elaborated on the state of documentaries, claiming, “The documentary world has been completely transformed by money and the streamers.”

A Commitment to Truth

Peck’s work is marked by a deep commitment to confronting systemic racism and the colonial legacy, evident in his acclaimed films “I Am Not Your Negro” and “Exterminate All the Brutes.” He believes in the importance of presenting a truthful narrative that challenges dominant discourses. “I knew I had to bring to the screen what I saw, to deconstruct dominant narratives,” he said, emphasizing his role as a filmmaker in shaping societal perspectives.

Recognition and Future Endeavors

“Orwell: 2+2=5” represents Peck’s fourth premiere at Cannes, which includes previous works and juror roles. Produced by Alex Gibney’s Jigsaw Productions and Peck’s Velvet Films alongside Universal Pictures Content Group, this documentary continues Peck’s engagement with critical historical narratives.