The phrase "All Light, Everywhere" refers primarily to a 2021 American documentary film directed by Theo Anthony. The film explores the biases inherent in human perception, especially focusing on the use of police body cameras and surveillance technologies. It examines how these technologies, often considered objective, are influenced by human biases and cultural conditioning, raising questions about the nature of truth and objectivity in visual media. Key aspects of the film "All Light, Everywhere":
- Theme: The documentary investigates the complex relationship between cameras, weapons, policing, and justice. It draws historical parallels between early motion photography and surveillance technology, highlighting how cameras can be both tools and weapons. The film also delves into neuroscience experiments related to perception and the societal impact of surveillance, particularly in Baltimore communities
- Content: It covers a broad historical timeline, connecting the invention of early photographic devices like the Janssen revolver and chronophotography to modern police body cameras. The film challenges viewers to consider how much of what we see can be trusted, given the fallibility of both human senses and technological devices
- Reception: "All Light, Everywhere" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2021, winning the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Nonfiction Experimentation. It received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking approach, holding a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and generally favorable reviews on Metacritic. Critics praised its philosophical depth, editing style, and the way it provokes reflection on surveillance and objectivity
- Style: The film employs essay and collage techniques, blending interviews, archival footage, and experimental visuals to create a kaleidoscopic narrative. It also includes moments where subjects become aware of the camera's presence, highlighting the interplay between observer and observed
In summary, "All Light, Everywhere" is a documentary that uses the metaphor of light and vision to explore the limits of human and technological perception, especially in the context of surveillance and policing, questioning the possibility of truly objective observation in a world full of bias and interpretation
