Enemies of the State (2020)

Review Team

4/5

Enemies of the State, directed by Sonia Kennebeck, offers a compelling exploration of the intersection between technology and personal liberty. The film centres on the DeHart family, particularly their son Matt, whose association with the hacker collective Anonymous draws the attention of the U.S. g ... Show more >> Enemies of the State, directed by Sonia Kennebeck, offers a compelling exploration of the intersection between technology and personal liberty. The film centres on the DeHart family, particularly their son Matt, whose association with the hacker collective Anonymous draws the attention of the U.S. government. This documentary effectively captures the escalating tension as the family grapples with the repercussions of Matt's digital activism. Kennebeck’s direction is both thoughtful and incisive, allowing viewers to consider the broader implications of surveillance and privacy in a digital age. The emotional weight carried by the DeHart family is palpable, and the film's pacing maintains engagement throughout. While some may find the themes disconcerting, the film ultimately serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of personal freedoms in the face of governmental power. This is a must-watch for those interested in contemporary issues surrounding technology and civil liberties. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Enemies of the State is an intriguing if somewhat uneven documentary that dives into the life of Matt DeHart and his family. The premise is captivating: a seemingly average family thrust into a whirlwind of government scrutiny due to their son's online activities. However, while the film raises esse ... Show more >> Enemies of the State is an intriguing if somewhat uneven documentary that dives into the life of Matt DeHart and his family. The premise is captivating: a seemingly average family thrust into a whirlwind of government scrutiny due to their son's online activities. However, while the film raises essential questions about privacy and the digital age, it sometimes feels like it skims the surface rather than digging deeper into the emotional turmoil experienced by the DeHart family. The pacing can be a bit slow, but the moments of tension are effectively portrayed, leaving viewers with a sense of unease about the current state of surveillance. There are flashes of brilliance, particularly in how it portrays the conflict between personal ideals and state power, but it doesn't fully realise its potential. Still, for those interested in the implications of technology on personal freedom, it's a worthwhile watch, albeit with some reservations. Show less