The rise of 'citizen vigilante' narratives in popular culture is a disturbing trend that warrants closer examination. In this article, we'll delve into the recent movie, 'Citizen Vigilante,' and explore the implications of its narrative and the broader cultural context it represents.
The Petulant Fantasy
'Citizen Vigilante' presents an intriguing, yet deeply flawed, portrayal of an American expat in Europe who takes justice into his own hands. The film's protagonist, Michael Sanders, embodies a disturbing blend of vigilante justice and landlord capitalism. What makes this particularly fascinating is the way it taps into a fantasy shared by some on the far-right: the idea of a lone hero cleansing society of its perceived ills.
However, the film's execution falls short of its provocative premise. The action sequences, meant to be thrilling, are instead gory and absurd. The city, which Sanders portrays as a hellish wasteland, appears bright and sterile on screen, creating an unintended comedic effect. Personally, I think this dissonance highlights the film's failure to convincingly portray its intended message.
The Absence of Ideology
One of the most striking aspects of 'Citizen Vigilante' is its lack of a coherent ideological framework. Sanders, the vigilante, cannot be easily categorized as an anarchist or a fascist. He wants to profit from the capitalist system while simultaneously railing against it. This character study raises important questions about the nature of conservative art and its relationship to political ideology.
In my opinion, the film's creators seem to have missed the mark in their attempt to create a right-wing art piece. The absence of a clear political commitment makes it difficult to classify as conservative, and its lack of artistic merit further undermines its impact.
The Culture of Petulance
The release of 'Citizen Vigilante' comes at a time when petulance and trolling have become prevalent in popular culture, particularly on the right. The film's release coincides with the second Trump administration, which many saw as a moment of conservative ascendence. However, this cultural moment is characterized more by petulance than by any coherent political ideology.
Online influencers, streamers, and comedians have embraced a culture of 'nana-nana booboo,' alleging persecution while engaging in antisocial behavior. This trend is evident across various media platforms, from stand-up comedy to news media, and even in the White House's social media accounts. It's a culture of provocation without substance, designed to rile up imaginary opponents.
The Future of Political Cinema
As we reflect on the shortcomings of 'Citizen Vigilante,' we must ask ourselves what the future holds for political cinema. If the right is producing petulant, poorly made films, is there a space for a new wave of leftist political movements in cinema? I believe there is, and I hope that future films in this genre are not only better made but also more thoughtful and nuanced in their exploration of political themes.
In conclusion, 'Citizen Vigilante' serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of petulant, ideologically shallow art. It highlights the need for a more thoughtful and engaging approach to political cinema, one that goes beyond provocation and offers a deeper exploration of complex issues. As we move forward, let's hope for a future where political cinema rises above the petty and the provocative, offering instead a platform for meaningful dialogue and reflection.
