Night is Not Eternal movie review: Nanfu Wang’s Night Is Not Eternal is a compelling HBO documentary that delves into the intersection of personal relationships and political activism. Known for her works such as Hooligan Sparrow and One Child Nation, Wang builds an intimate and critical narrative around her friendship with Cuban activist Rosa María Payá. The documentary, premiering on November 19, 2024, offers a profound exploration of authoritarianism, dissent, and the complex moral compromises involved in the fight for freedom.
Night is Not Eternal movie review
Wang’s approach in Night Is Not Eternal mirrors her distinctive style of embedding herself into her narratives. The documentary begins with reflections on her journey as a filmmaker, recalling her struggles while making Hooligan Sparrow. Her personal experiences with censorship and oppression in China set the stage for her exploration of Payá’s life and activism in Cuba.
The bond between Wang and Payá forms the heart of the documentary. Their shared experiences under authoritarian regimes foster a connection that transcends borders, allowing Wang to draw parallels between China, Cuba, and the United States. This comparative analysis not only contextualizes the larger themes of the documentary but also underscores Wang’s ability to intertwine the personal with the political.
Night Is Not Eternal Official Trailer
Rosa María Payá’s activism stems from a deeply personal place—her father, Oswaldo Payá, was a prominent pro-democracy activist in Cuba who lost his life under suspicious circumstances in 2012. His death forced Rosa María and her family into exile, but it did not deter her from continuing his fight.
Through archival footage, Wang paints a vivid portrait of Payá’s early life, her father’s unwavering commitment to democracy, and the Cuban government’s relentless efforts to suppress dissent. These glimpses into Payá’s past provide a powerful backdrop to her present-day activism, where she juggles her roles as a leader in the Cuban resistance and a rising political figure in the United States.
The narrative takes a sharp turn as Wang begins to question Payá’s political choices. The documentary reveals a dissonance between the ideals of activism and the compromises made in pursuit of influence. This tension becomes evident when Wang discovers Payá attending a Donald Trump rally and associating with the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation.
Wang’s disappointment stems from a broader concern: the alignment of some Cuban exiles with right-leaning ideologies in the United States. Through voiceovers and off-the-record conversations, Wang probes the complexities of Payá’s support for figures like Trump, who embodies authoritarian tendencies akin to those she opposes in Cuba.
The documentary raises critical questions about the ethics of political strategy. Payá’s refusal to condemn the U.S. embargo on Cuba—a policy her father openly criticized—highlights a shift in her stance. This silence is juxtaposed with her demand for international support for Cuban freedom, creating a nuanced picture of the challenges faced by activists navigating global politics.
Wang’s discomfort with Payá’s choices reflects a broader critique of the “ends justify the means” mentality. The documentary doesn’t shy away from examining the contradictions in Payá’s platform, particularly her alignment with an administration known for dehumanizing immigrants and marginalized communities.
One of Night Is Not Eternal’s strengths lies in its comparative analysis of authoritarian regimes. Wang draws parallels between the surveillance and censorship in China, the repression in Cuba, and the increasing threats to democracy in the United States. By doing so, she emphasizes the universal nature of these struggles and the interconnectedness of global political movements.
Through archival footage and on-the-ground observations, Wang illustrates the shared experiences of those living under authoritarian rule. Scenes from Cuban protests echo the Tiananmen Square massacre and even the U.S. government’s response to Black Lives Matter protests, reinforcing the documentary’s central theme: the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
The friendship between Wang and Payá adds an emotional layer to the documentary. Their shared commitment to activism initially unites them, but their differing perspectives on the means to achieve change create tension. The documentary captures their candid exchanges, revealing the complexities of their relationship and the broader ideological divides within activist movements.
Wang’s introspection and willingness to confront these differences make Night Is Not Eternal a deeply personal project. Her reflections on communism, capitalism, and the misuse of political rhetoric provide valuable insights into the challenges of building a liberatory consciousness.
Despite its critical tone, Night Is Not Eternal ends on a hopeful note. Footage of recent protests in China and Cuba serves as a testament to the enduring power of collective action. The documentary reaffirms the belief that governments exist to serve the people, not the other way around.
Wang’s ability to weave together historical context, personal narratives, and political analysis makes Night Is Not Eternal a timely and thought-provoking film. It challenges viewers to grapple with uncomfortable truths about power, resistance, and the moral complexities of activism.
Conclusion
Night Is Not Eternal is a testament to Nanfu Wang’s skill as a filmmaker and storyteller. By combining personal experiences with broader sociopolitical themes, she creates a documentary that is both intimate and universally resonant.
The film’s exploration of Rosa María Payá’s journey—from grassroots activism in Cuba to her political evolution in the United States—offers a nuanced perspective on the fight for freedom. While it raises difficult questions about compromise and ideological purity, it ultimately celebrates the resilience and determination of those who dare to challenge authoritarian rule.
This documentary is not just a story about Cuba or China; it’s a powerful reminder of the ongoing global struggle for democracy and human rights. For audiences, Night Is Not Eternal is a call to action—a plea to remain vigilant, question authority, and believe in the transformative power of collective resistance.
Top Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
It feels unintentionally like an alarm for Americans as we await the second coming of President Trump and his promise to go after his enemies – Christopher Campbell, Nonfics
Intentionally or not, it makes the case that this night of authoritarianism might actually be eternal… Still, Wang leaves audiences with the sense that, for good or for ill, the individuality of humans will never be fully stamped out – Christian Zilko, indieWire
Top Movie Ratings
| IMDb | 6/10 |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 58% |
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