Uprising (2012 film)


Uprising is a 2012 documentary that traces the origins of the Egyptian Revolution of 2011 that began in January 2011. It provides a first hand account of the early stages of revolution and follows various leaders and organizers of the movement. The film is directed and produced by Fredrik Stanton and is being distributed by Zeitgeist Films.

Synopsis

The documentary begins with coverage of the spontaneous marches against the 30 year oppressive military rule of president Hosni Mubarak. For the first time in history, organizers and activists turned to social media to voice their opinions and organize protests in Tahrir Square. Though initially a peaceful demonstration, the violence of the police charged with putting down the revolution inspired further violence on both sides as protesters continued to demand that Hosni Mubarak step down from the presidency. When the appointment of the former head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Directorate, Omar Suleiman, as Vice-President was not enough to end protests, Mubarak agreed to step down on February 11, 2011. It was decided that the military would rule for six months until elections could be held. While the film only covers the events leading up to and shortly following the end of the Mubarak regime, the revolution in Egypt continues to this day as new challenges are faced.

Awards

Daniel M. Gold of The New York Times stated, "Among the film's virtues is its analysis of the strategies that channeled the unrest... Uprising is a concise commemoration of a new society's birth pains."