Paul Laverty on Ken Loach’s Final Film, Trump as “a Symptom of the Times,” Musk’s “Unfettered Power”

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As a devoted admirer, I’ve earned recognition for my screenwriting work alongside my long-term creative partner, Ken Loach, in the realm of social realist films. Our collaborations, including Cannes Palme D’Or winners such as “I, Daniel Blake” and “The Wind That Shakes the Barley,” have left a lasting impact on cinema.

Originally from Calcutta, India, he is the son of an Irish mother and a Scottish father. After obtaining a philosophy degree in Rome, he spent time working for a human rights group in Nicaragua during the 1980s. Now residing in Edinburgh, this talented individual is currently participating in the 15th annual Luxembourg City Film Festival as part of the jury, led by renowned Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof and joined by stars such as Tim Roth.

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Hailing from Calcutta, India, his parents were an Irish mother and a Scottish father. He completed his philosophy studies in Rome before moving on to work for a human rights organization in Nicaragua during the 1980s. Presently based in Edinburgh, he is taking part in this year’s 15th Luxembourg City Film Festival, where he serves as a jury member under the leadership of acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof and alongside stars like Tim Roth.

There, Laverty discussed the role of movies in today’s world with THR. He also expressed his desire to collaborate with his partner, Spanish filmmaker Icíar Bollaín (I Am Nevenka), and addressed speculations about The Old Oak being Loach’s last feature film.

How does the ever-changing global landscape, such as the potential second term of President Trump, influence your approach to storytelling and filmmaking specifically?

In my perspective, labeling oneself as an issues-focused writer or filmmaker isn’t something I’d embrace. Characters and their stories should always take center stage. However, the decisions about who these characters are and the narrative of each story will inevitably reveal one’s passions. As [Bertolt] Brecht famously put it, “Without enjoyment, there is no performance.” Therefore, a tale is essential. Simply criticizing things and attempting to force-feed that criticism to others would clash with my values and Ken’s, as we believe in creating something engaging rather than didactic.

These days, I find myself in awe – truly astonishing times we live in! There’s a significant piece of work that seems to have slipped under the radar, but it holds immense importance. I’m referring to a study conducted by Forensic Architecture, a research group based at Goldsmiths, University of London, led by the brilliant British-Israeli academic Eyal Weizman. This team combines architectural expertise with scientific rigor to delve into the happenings in Gaza. They’ve published an extensive 823-page report titled “A Cartography of Genocide,” which is a remarkable piece of work. The report meticulously analyzes tens of thousands of data points to create a compelling visual representation.

This document is exceptionally thorough and comprehensive, yet it’s often disregarded or disputed. The question then arises about the potential collaboration of Western governments, including the United States and our own in Britain, in genocide. I challenge anyone to find flaws in this evidence. However, times have evolved, and we witness the scope of these events. It’s as if the prophet Ezekiel foretold it: “We possess the ability to see, but choose not to. We have the capacity to hear, but prefer not to.

It seems like international law is being disregarded, as the United States appears to be targeting the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Den Haag, Netherlands, and even going after its staff. This behavior is akin to that of a mafia. The individuals who are tasked with upholding the Geneva Convention, human rights, the UN Charter, and respect for humanity are being targeted, which is quite striking. Is it likely we’ll see a film made about this? Not very probable! Who holds the power to shape our perspective? From what viewpoint do you perceive the world?

It appears we’re in an era where the concept of truth is increasingly contested, with many struggling to discern fact from fiction about global events. Could you share your insights on this matter?

Back in the ’80s, I found myself in Central America, where I bore witness to a troubling time. Misinformation was rampant, and narratives were often distorted. In the ’90s, Ronald Reagan compared the Contras – these right-wing militias who fought against Marxist governments – to our American forefathers. As a journalist, I spoke with many individuals during this period. Some confessed to heinous acts such as torturing civilians, mutilating young girls, and even plucking out eyes. However, they would vehemently deny these atrocities when confronted.

To be honest, what sets them apart now is their blatant disregard for consequences. It seems like they act with complete immunity, as if nothing they do matters.

As a fan, I recall your comment about potentially dismantling international law. Given Elon Musk’s efforts to streamline U.S. government institutions and reduce spending, I find it intriguing that you might hold a different perspective regarding the role of government, especially since your films often portray its significance.

It’s quite intriguing, isn’t it? After all, who else possesses such immense wealth and authority without being elected? He’s certainly a trailblazer, an individual who can casually invest $44 billion in Twitter without even blinking an eye. This accumulation of power, unrestrained power, is quite something. I believe they are shaping the world according to their own storyline. Consider how they have targeted any entity that opposes them. Their goal seems to be eliminating those who disagree with them.

They discuss the concept of free speech. However, it’s merely a jest. What they seem to be doing is demolishing whatever decency remains, right before our eyes. It’s an unchecked freedom, aside from its coarseness and vulgarity.

However, it seems clear to me that Trump is a manifestation of the current state of affairs. I believe he’s a reflection of the times we live in. He has an uncanny knack for sensing fear and exploiting it, much like a predator in the jungle. These are perilous times indeed, extremely dangerous times. And who among us can predict the toll this will take on the United States? Who can estimate the number of lives that may be lost? Only time will tell what the future holds.

Did you catch the AI video Trump posted on Truth Social, which its makers later labeled as satire? Frankly, even in my wildest dreams, I could never have envisioned such a character behaving that way. It was like witnessing the golden calf, so crude, so vulgar, so vicious. The combination of barbarism and banality reminded me of Hannah Arendt’s concept of the banality of evil. I really think people should read Forensic Architecture and Hannah Arendt to gain a better understanding.

As a filmmaker, how do you see your role in fighting back against such trends that worry you?

As a gamer, I understand the urge to stand against the darkness and cruelty in our world, but let’s not overlook the power held by those who do grassroots work. We may be just creating small stories, yet we strive to make them meaningful and foster a spark of hope amidst despair. After all, if they aim to extinguish hope, they’ll succeed in silencing resistance. But when there’s hope, people rise up, find their voice, and propose change together. We might be the game developers crafting the narratives that inspire this fight.

In these challenging times, I seek tales that ignite laughter, bring a smile, and perhaps spark a thought or two. It’s hard not to feel the weight of the world when such cruelty is prevalent, but I believe it’s essential we nurture our friendships and communities, finding ways to embrace joy as a form of resistance. I view this as a deeply personal and political stance.

What percentage of the world do you observe expressing alternative ideas, based on your earlier statement about hoping for people to voice alternatives?

It’s disheartening to observe how fractured the oppositions are, allowing them to have free reign and essentially control the situation. Everyone seems to be bowing down to them, acting submissively and like doormats. I can’t think of anything more sickening than watching [U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer] behave so subserviently at the White House, presenting a letter from the King. What an appalling display of groveling! This is the extent of the sycophantic behavior we witness. In essence, the Labour Party appears to have surrendered its principles.

It’s quite intriguing to observe how events unfold across the remainder of Europe, given that many nations have witnessed significant victories for far-right political parties.

You brought up the spirit of Labour. Let’s discuss your artistic spirit. Have you decided what movie project you will be taking on next? Your partner Icíar hinted to me last year that if everything goes smoothly, you two might collaborate on something?

I have two individuals whom I’m eager to collaborate with in the near future. One is Icíar, and another is Ramin Bahrani, a charming gentleman based in New York. He directed ‘The White Tiger’ and ’99 Homes’, films that I admire greatly. I hold Ramin in high regard, and I would relish the opportunity to work on a project with him. We’ve been discussing possibilities, so let’s hope for the best. Fingers crossed! He’s not only kind-hearted but also exceptionally intelligent. His sensitivity, combined with his brilliance and talent, makes him an ideal collaborator. So, here’s to hoping!

Was The Old Oak really the last Ken Loach film?

Absolutely, it’s going to happen. We’ve had an incredible journey so far. Ken remains incredibly astute, as I recently conversed with him. However, he will turn 89 on his upcoming birthday in June. You see, producing a feature film requires an immense amount of energy, and he doesn’t delegate much. He even did “The Old Oak” at the age of 86, which was truly inspiring due to his indomitable spirit. He is a remarkable individual. I find it hard to believe that fate brought us together – such a remarkable man.

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2025-03-13 12:55