Venezuela Bolivariana: People & Struggle of the Fourth World War

According to the makers of Venezuela Bolivariana, we are currently mixed up in a global World War IV, that is to say, the war against neo-liberal capitalism and globalisation. Incorporating a series of swiftly edited interview excerpts and archival footage, the film presents an image of a quickly growing countermovement in the form of the so-called Bolívar Revolution (named after Símon Bolívar, the renowned nineteenth century freedom fighter striving for unity in Latin America). The history of this movement started in February 1989, when as a result of an increase in food and fuel prices popular revolt erupted and many people got killed. In subsequent years, social unrest remained. In 1998, the presidential election was surprisingly won by former lieutenant-colonel Hugo Chávez. A new constitution was passed, and Chávez promised to put an end to inflation and corruption; a promise he has not fulfilled up until now. Venezuela, as other Latin American states, runs the risk of succumbing to globalisation, international economic politics and North American imperialism. Meanwhile, owing to a strong base and a strong communication network, the struggle by the Venezuelan people has matured into an international movement against neo-liberal capitalism. (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam)