This Academy Award winning documentary features the story …
This Academy Award winning documentary features the story behind Edward Snowden and the NSA spying scandal. In January 2013, Laura Poitras started receiving anonymous encrypted e-mails from “CITIZENFOUR,” who claimed to have evidence of illegal covert surveillance programs run by the NSA in collaboration with other intelligence agencies worldwide. Five months later, she and reporters Glenn Greenwald and Ewen MacAskill flew to Hong Kong for the first of many meetings with the man who turned out to be Edward Snowden. The film documents and unfolds the whole process, which is now an important part of the history. Watch the documentary . Write down your response to the following questions: is available at:
The documentary “CITIZENFOUR” provides an in-depth look into the story behind Edward Snowden and the NSA spying scandal. Directed by Laura Poitras, the film follows Poitras, along with reporters Glenn Greenwald and Ewen MacAskill, as they meet with Snowden in Hong Kong in 2013.
The documentary begins with Poitras receiving anonymous encrypted emails from someone identifying themselves as “CITIZENFOUR,” who claims to have evidence of illegal covert surveillance programs conducted by the NSA in collaboration with other intelligence agencies worldwide. Intrigued by the potential significance of this information, Poitras, Greenwald, and MacAskill decide to meet the sender in person to learn more.
The film portrays the tension and uncertainty surrounding the initial contact with Snowden as Poitras and the reporters fly to Hong Kong for their first meeting. Once in Hong Kong, the documentary captures the intense discussions and exchanges between Snowden and the journalists as they delve into the details of the surveillance programs he has exposed. These conversations provide viewers with an unprecedented insight into the motivations and actions of Snowden, as well as the implications of the government’s extensive surveillance activities.
Throughout the documentary, Poitras skillfully weaves together interviews, footage from the meetings with Snowden, and news reports to provide a comprehensive and unbiased account of the events. The film does not shy away from addressing the legal and ethical debates arising from Snowden’s actions, exploring both sides of the arguments surrounding national security and individual privacy.
One of the major strengths of “CITIZENFOUR” is its ability to document history as it unfolds. The film captures a pivotal moment in contemporary history, as the revelations brought forth by Snowden sparked a global conversation about government surveillance and citizens’ rights to privacy. By presenting the events in real-time, the documentary allows viewers to witness the process and impact of whistleblowing firsthand.
Furthermore, Poitras’ documentary raises important questions about the balance between national security and individual liberties, as well as the role of journalism in holding governments accountable. The film invites viewers to critically examine the issues at hand and contemplate the broader implications of unchecked government surveillance.
In conclusion, “CITIZENFOUR” is a powerful documentary that sheds light on Edward Snowden and the NSA spying scandal. Through its careful construction and presentation of events, the film provides a thought-provoking exploration of government surveillance, whistleblowing, and the tension between national security and individual privacy. Its historical significance and relevance to current debates make it a must-watch for anyone interested in these pressing issues.