DO NOT SPLIT
The Oscar Nom Exposes The Hong Kong Riots
A short documentary film, Do Not Split, tracks police brutality and violence against the pro-democracy revolt mounted by demonstrators in Hong Kong. Norwegian producer/director Anders Hammer put his safety at risk during the year he spent there working on the project. The Oscar-nominated documentary is now streaming on Feel of Vision’s website.
Hammer rushed to Hong Kong in 2019 to record unrest after an extradition law passed that could have sent defendants to China for trial. Protests erupted, and police cracked down.
The demonstrators were clever and used unique ways to protect themselves and shield their identities from authorities. They used masks and umbrellas as they moved through crowded streets. Protestors around the globe are now copying their methods. The film’s title, “Do Not Split,” is a motto borrowed from the movement. It stood for the protestors’ cohesiveness against Chinese authorities.
In 1997, Britain returned control of Hong Kong to China. In return, the Chinese promised the city autonomy for 50 years. But, Chinese Communists are now chipping away at Hong Kong’s freedoms that used to include a free press and free speech. Pro-democracy demonstrators are facing trials, and recently a group was convicted of unauthorized protests. The Chinese are also passing legislation against dissent and free elections.
The Academy Awards usually air around the world. But, Chinese authorities may block the ceremonies this year as a protest against “Do Not Split,” and the Chinese-born director Chloé Zhao’s nominated film, Nomadland. According to Hong Kong’s local broadcaster, the official reason for the possible blackout is cost.
If you are a student of history and democracy, “Do Not Split” may be a compelling selection to choose.
