HyperNormalisation

HyperNormalisation presents a complex narrative of how our world has become increasingly confusing and seemingly out of control. Directed by Adam Curtis, it takes viewers on a journey through the last 40 years of global events, weaving together seemingly disparate threads to create a tapestry of our current reality.

The documentary begins in 1975, focusing on New York City and Damascus, and proceeds to unravel a series of interconnected stories that span decades. It covers a wide range of topics, including the rise of financial power, the evolution of suicide bombing in the Middle East, the emergence of the internet and big data, and the growth of the surveillance state. Curtis argues that these events have contributed to a world where politicians, journalists, and ordinary citizens have retreated into a simplified, often fake version of reality.

One of the central themes is the concept of “hypernormalisation” itself, borrowed from Alexei Yurchak’s book about the final years of the Soviet Union. This term describes a state where everyone knows the system is failing, but as no one can imagine any alternative, politicians and citizens alike maintain a pretense of a functioning society. Curtis applies this concept to our current global situation, suggesting that we have entered a similar state of cognitive dissonance.

The film pays particular attention to the role of political figures and their impact on world events. It highlights how leaders like Ronald Reagan used theatricality over facts in their communications, and how figures such as Colonel Gaddafi and the Assad dynasty in Syria played pivotal roles in shaping Middle Eastern politics. It also touches on more recent political phenomena, including the rise of Donald Trump and the Brexit vote.

Curtis’s narrative style is unique and engaging. Rather than relying on traditional talking heads, he uses a vast array of archival footage, repurposed to illustrate his points. This approach creates a visually rich experience that complements the complex ideas being presented. It juxtaposes seemingly unrelated images and events, encouraging viewers to draw connections and see patterns in the chaos of recent history.

While HyperNormalisation presents a bleak picture of our current world, it also offers insights into how we arrived at this point. It suggests that the failure of the political left to provide a coherent alternative vision has contributed to the current state of affairs. It also points to the role of technology, particularly social media, in creating echo chambers that reinforce simplified worldviews.

The documentary’s scope is ambitious, covering everything from the financialization of the economy to the impact of cybernetics on society. While this breadth can sometimes feel overwhelming, it also provides a comprehensive view of the forces shaping our world. Curtis’s narrative draws connections between these diverse elements, presenting a cohesive, if unsettling, picture of contemporary society.