Empire Builders

Czech anti-migrant and anti-Islam activists have decided to build an empire. But do they really believe what they preach? How does their surrounding environment view this activity? At the general level, this film – three years in the making and named after an absurdist play by Boris Vian – looks at the rise and fall of the popularity of right-wing populist parties. Specifically, it tracks the unsuccessful political career paths of Petr Hampl and Martin Konvička. Amateur reporter Tomáš Měšťan also finds himself at the forefront. Initially, he joined these “builders” as their cameraman, but later he actively participated in inventing conspiracy theories. The film also includes details of behind the scenes activities carried out by Block Against Islam, starting with the preparations for their election campaign, putting up posters and voter agitation, and ending with their creation and dissemination of specific-purpose disinformation. (One World)