Lifeclass

Adam Curtis's 'Lifeclass' is a sprawling documentary that delves into the complex and often contradictory history of how Western societies have attempted to understand and control human beings. It explores the evolution of ideas about how to create 'good people' and 'good societies,' from the Enlightenment to the present day. The film examines the emergence of a new kind of power that seeks to change people's hearts and minds, rather than just control their actions, often with unintended and disturbing consequences.

Adam Curtis's documentaries are known for their unique style and ambitious scope, and 'Lifeclass' is no exception. It has been praised for its intellectual rigor, its ability to connect disparate historical events, and its provocative questioning of established narratives. While challenging and sometimes dense, it is generally regarded as a significant and thought-provoking work that offers a powerful critique of modern society and its underlying assumptions about human nature.

• Praised for its intellectual depth and unconventional approach to history.

• Critiqued for its dense narrative and potential for oversimplification.

• Seen as a highly thought-provoking examination of power and societal control.

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Adam Curtis often uses extensive archival footage and juxtaposes it with contemporary voice-over narration to create his distinctive documentary style, which became a hallmark of 'Lifeclass'.