The Encampments Director on Documenting Pro-Palestine Protests

An essential document of a moment in time for a story very much still unfolding, The Encampments is a thorough, engrossing portrait of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment. Beginning in April 2024, the protest was formed by Columbia University students who called for their university to divest from U.S. and Israeli weapons companies that are aiding in the deaths of thousands upon thousands of Palestinian people. Following an opening weekend that resulted in the highest-grossing per-theater average for a documentary in history, Michael T. Workman and Kei Pritsker's film now playing in theaters nationwide. As The Film Stage's Editor-in-Chief Jordan Raup in his review, "With insights from those most directly involved in the protests––including many now fearing for their safety and future as America’s newly instated fascist regime continues to strip rights––the documentary becomes a sobering, infuriating look at the dismantling of free speech and nefarious, calculated ways those in power will go to any lengths to silence those that are of opposing interests. Rather than employing a bleak view of persistent struggle, directors Michael T. Workman and Kei Pritsker find the unfolding story’s hope and inspiration, crafting a powerful, clarifying portrait of collective action. As other universities and organizations drew inspiration, we witness how small acts of courage can cause ripple effects worldwide." Jordan had the opportunity to speak with Pritsker about being trusted to film from inside the encampment, why it was important to show a side that mainstream media wasn't portraying, inviting those with opposing views to watch the film and judge for themselves, the corporatization of universities, fast-tracking the theatrical release, and dedicating his life to the Palestinian struggle.