Over half-a-decade after delivering Capitalism: A Love Story, the Oscar-winning Michael Moore surprised many when it was announced his under-the-radar next film was finished and would be premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival. After debuting last night, he released the first teaser for Where to Invade Next, a film which finds him going abroad to critique the way America politically enters other countries.
In their review, THR said, “Instead of ranting over the conspicuous social failings he sees in the U.S.A., he humorously finds solutions to its ills by “invading” various countries and bringing back the victor’s spoils, which are simply other people’s good ideas. Funny and always on-topic without going overboard, it’s an engaging film that could broaden Moore’s fan base. Its premiere in Toronto was greeted with eager laughter and frequent applause.” Although a U.S. release hasn’t been set yet, one can get an early glimpse with the teaser below.
TIFF’s official description:
Michael Moore understands the art of provocation. From Roger & Me to Bowling for Columbine to Fahrenheit 9/11, he’s been ahead of the cultural curve with films that galvanized audiences and escalated box-office records.
Now, six years since his last film and with another US election around the corner, he delivers a fresh surprise that feels current yet perfectly timeless. Filming abroad without drawing attention from American media, Moore reunites his A-team, including producers Carl Deal and Tia Lessin (directors of the Oscar-nominated Trouble the Water), and brings us a funny and provocative work that’s guaranteed to stir up conversation.
The United States’ long history of invading countries and pushing agendas has produced results that are, to say the least, mixed. What if the US could do a better job at invading? That’s the premise for this film, which sends Moore on an epic journey.
Americans may be known as talkers, but Moore actually listens and he’s a magnet for memorable characters. Their dialogues are revelatory, poignant, and hilarious. The film builds momentum toward a culmination that resonates with hard-earned hope.
In the break since his previous film, 2009’s Capitalism: A Love Story, Moore has nurtured his cinematic passions as co-founder of the Traverse City Film Festival and a champion of other directors. Whatever else he’s been doing in that time, it has had a restorative effect on his filmmaking. Where to Invade Next conveys a sense that he’s been saving up his energies to create something really special. Rather than following the predictable motions of partisan politics, he reframes the conversation around hot-button issues in a highly entertaining and subversive way.
Where to Invade Next premiered at TIFF and will screen at NYFF.