‘Collapse’ is a documentary that describes our civilisation on the verge of destruction. It follows the course of a single interview conducted over a few days in a basement somewhere in LA, during which Michael Ruppert – a former LA police officer and investigative journalist – sets out a bleak vision for our future.
One of the interesting things about the documentary is the singular focus. Of course, if you haven’t had your ‘oh shit’ moment about the economic model of infinite growth on a planet with finite resources, you might well have it watching this film. But the really unique thing about ‘Collapse’ is Ruppert himself, and the decision to present his perspective alone.
In the not too distant past Ruppert’s views on the global economic system would have been branded as conspiracy theory. These days, many of his views are mainstream and verifiable. But the film doesn’t seek to prove any of his claims by supporting them with other opinions or research. The weaknesses in his account are sometimes treated with a little humour, but are never addressed directly. And while the interview contains a number of contradictions, the director didn’t feel the need to point them out with the editing.
Ruppert’s character occupies at least as much space as his message. The title could refer as easily to Ruppert’s personal life as to crises of global energy and capital. And even though I don’t find all of his interpretations convincing (I won’t begin stockpiling seeds and water just yet), the character was so compelling that his message will likely travel further and wider than others that are, perhaps, more academic.
‘Collapse’ is showing as part of the Berlinale.
