The documentary film industry is no stranger to political scandals and controversies, and “A Storm Foretold” adds to the collection with its gripping portrayal of Trump adviser Roger Stone. Directed by Christoffer Guldbrandsen, this documentary offers a unique perspective on Stone’s involvement in the American political landscape, particularly during the turbulent years leading up to the 2020 election and the subsequent January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol.
Guldbrandsen’s documentary stands out due to the intimate access he gained to Stone over an extended period, starting in 2018. This level of access allowed the filmmaker to document Stone’s political strategies and manipulations, providing a behind-the-scenes look at a controversial figure. The footage captured by Guldbrandsen is both explosive and revealing, as it showcases Stone’s attempts to sow doubts about the election results and his connections with prominent individuals involved in the insurrection.
Despite the significance of the documentary’s content, American audiences have yet to have the opportunity to experience “A Storm Foretold” firsthand. The film’s U.S. premiere, scheduled for September of this year at the Camden International Film Festival, was unfortunately canceled due to Hurricane Lee, which disrupted power to the venue in Maine. However, thanks to the recent distribution deal with Abramorama, American viewers will soon have the chance to witness this powerful documentary on the big screen.
“A Storm Foretold” captures the complexity of Stone’s character and the raw intensity of the current political landscape in America. In an era characterized by deception and the blurring of truth, Guldbrandsen’s verité-style approach provides an unfiltered view of Stone’s role in orchestrating the “Stop the Steal” campaign and laying the groundwork for the assault on the Capitol. The documentary allows audiences to witness firsthand the human catalysts behind the deep divide that plagues American society today.
Abramorama, the North American distributor of the documentary, recognizes the importance of sharing this film with the audience most affected by Stone’s actions. Limited screenings will commence at the Cinelounge Sunset in Los Angeles, starting this Sunday, December 3rd, followed by a theatrical rollout in New York City and Washington D.C. in early 2024. The aim is to give the American public an observational and insightful view of the political feuds that led to a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
During the production of “A Storm Foretold,” Guldbrandsen faced personal challenges that reflected the intensity of his subject matter. He suffered a heart attack in Denmark when Stone briefly withdrew from the project. Doctors attributed this near-fatal incident to the high levels of stress induced by the documentary. Guldbrandsen remains deeply affected by his experiences, reflecting on the rollercoaster ride that unfolded before him and the astonishing candidness, or recklessness, exhibited by Stone and his associates.
“A Storm Foretold” made its world premiere at CPH: DOX in Copenhagen and has since been featured at prestigious film festivals worldwide, including the Zurich Film Festival, Dokufest in Kosovo, and the New Zealand International Film Festival. The film’s cinematography, edited by Malene Lykke Dreyer and Andreas Jonsson Hay, flawlessly captures the essence of the events and characters depicted. The original score by Mikkel Maltha, Anthony Lexi, and Flemming Nordkrog further enhances the emotions elicited by the documentary. With executive producers Peter Frithjof Bang and Mette Hoffmann Meyer, and producers Christoffer Guldbrandsen, Peter Engel, and Herik Veileborg, the film is a collaborative effort that sheds light on one of the most controversial figures in modern American politics.
“A Storm Foretold” is a thought-provoking documentary that provides insight into the world of Roger Stone and the impact of his political strategies. Guldbrandsen’s unique access and compelling footage make this documentary a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the deeper complexities of contemporary American politics. Prepare to be captivated by the story unfolding on screen as you witness the events that have shaped the nation’s democracy, readying it for the next chapter in its tumultuous history.