Award-winning director Sir Steve McQueen has unveiled his latest cinematic masterpiece – “Occupied City”, a four-hour documentary that takes us back to Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. The film is an adaptation of a book by his wife, Dutch historian Bianca Stigter, and it’s more than just a retelling of history. McQueen calls it a “call to arms”, an urgent reminder of the horrors of fascism.
The documentary marries present-day Amsterdam with narration, offering viewers a peek into the day-to-day life of the Jewish community under Nazi occupation. It’s a chilling journey that McQueen hopes will reconnect us with a piece of history that many have forgotten.
“Occupied City” premiered at the London Film Festival and is another feather in McQueen’s cap, who already boasts Oscar-winning “Twelve Years A Slave”, “Hunger”, and BBC series “Small Axe” among his credits. However, this film goes beyond being just another cinematic achievement for McQueen; it’s also a commentary on Britain’s current political landscape.
After World War II ended, the UK was instrumental in creating the Human Rights Act and the European Court of Human Rights. Yet, recent remarks from Home Secretary Suella Braverman at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester have raised eyebrows and questions about Britain’s commitment to human rights.
Through “Occupied City”, McQueen aims to highlight not just our shared past but also provoke thought about our political future. His film serves as a warning against the rising tide of right-wing populism and highlights the dangers of complacency. If nothing is done, nothing changes – hence his call to arms.
Stigter echoes her husband’s sentiments, expressing hope that their film can serve as an antidote against rising right-wing sentiments in her native Amsterdam and the Netherlands.
Despite these potent warnings, McQueen remains optimistic about Britain’s resilience. He believes that people are switched on due to the turbulence of the past five years. He’s confident that they can see through the lies and understand the truth of what’s going on.
“Occupied City” is indeed a siren call, but when asked if he thinks Britain is at risk of becoming a fascist country, McQueen preferred to remain silent. While he may not have answered the question directly, his film speaks volumes about his thoughts on the matter.
“Occupied City” is set for release in Spring 2024. To learn more about it and other films featured at the London Film Festival, check out