Better Angels

Better Angels

Year: 2018

Runtime: 92 min

Language: English

Director: Malcolm Clarke

Documentary

As China's influence grows and challenges the United States, a period of uncertainty arises. This documentary, Better Angels, investigates the complex relationship between these two economic superpowers. It explores the potential consequences of escalating conflict and the possibility of peaceful coexistence, examining the historical tensions and potential pathways toward a more stable global future where differences can be overcome.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Better Angels (2018)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Better Angels (2018). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The documentary is contemporaneous, reflecting the current state of economic and diplomatic relations between the U.S. and China. It is particularly relevant in the context of ongoing tensions and discussions around a potential new cold war. The film emphasizes the urgency of the situation, highlighting events and sentiments that shape the present-day geopolitical landscape.

Location

Alabama, Shanghai, Iowa, Beijing

The film takes place in both the United States and China, focusing on diverse regions like Alabama and Iowa along with the bustling cities of Shanghai and Beijing. Each location represents not only the cultural and political climate of its nation but also the interconnected lives of its citizens. It serves as a backdrop to showcase the personal narratives reflecting the broader diplomatic relationship between these superpowers.

🇺🇸 USA 🇨🇳 China 🌍 Global

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:04

Main Characters – Better Angels (2018)

Meet the key characters of Better Angels (2018), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Madeleine Albright

Madeleine Albright is portrayed as a seasoned diplomat, offering wisdom and insights on the nature of diplomacy. Her metaphor comparing diplomacy to billiards highlights the complexities of international relations. She embodies the call for collaborative efforts and understanding between superpowers.

🎓 Diplomacy 👩‍⚖️ Leadership

Henry Kissinger

Henry Kissinger serves as a historical reference point within the film, known for his pivotal role in U.S. foreign policy. His input lends depth to the analysis of U.S.-China relations, showcasing the evolution of diplomatic strategies over time. He represents the importance of experienced voices in navigating complex global issues.

📜 History 🤔 Strategy

James A. Baker

James A. Baker is presented as a key political figure whose insights into international relations echo throughout the documentary's themes. His experience highlights the necessity of bipartisan approaches in dealing with foreign affairs. He symbolizes a pragmatic view of diplomacy in the face of challenges.

🏛️ Politics 🌐 Relations

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:04

Major Themes – Better Angels (2018)

Explore the central themes of Better Angels (2018), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤝 Diplomacy

Diplomacy is a central theme, as the film examines the intricate and often strained relationship between the United States and China. It highlights the importance of dialogue and collaboration in seeking solutions to escalating tensions. The documentary underscores the need for empathy and understanding in international relations, advocating for a move away from confrontational approaches.

🌏 Global Stability

The theme of global stability is woven throughout the film, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nations and the consequences of their actions. It calls attention to the idea that economic rivalries and conflicts can have far-reaching effects on the world stage. The urgency of nurturing peaceful relations is presented as vital for the well-being of billions.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:04

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Explore Movie Threads

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Soaring Geopolitical Documentaries like Better Angels

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern involves systematically investigating a major geopolitical issue, often through expert interviews, historical context, and on-the-ground perspectives. The journey is one of discovery and analysis, building a case for understanding complexity rather than offering simple solutions. The ending is frequently ambiguous, reflecting the unresolved nature of real-world challenges.

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These movies are grouped by their shared commitment to a balanced, journalistic tone, a steady pacing that allows for deep analysis, and a focus on the sobering realities of international power dynamics. They create a specific vibe of urgent contemplation.

Thoughtful Movies with Ambiguous Endings like Better Angels

Stories that explore complex questions without providing easy answers.Discover films similar to Better Angels that delve into complex subjects and conclude with thoughtful ambiguity. If you appreciated the film's refusal to offer a simple answer, you'll find more stories here that explore difficult questions and leave you contemplating the possibilities.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern involves a deep dive into a multifaceted problem, presenting various perspectives and conflicting evidence. The central conflict is often intellectual or moral rather than purely physical. The story builds to a point of realization about the complexity of the issue, culminating in an ambiguous ending that encourages further reflection rather than providing closure.

Why These Movies?

These films are connected by their moderate complexity, medium emotional weight, and, most importantly, their ambiguous or open-ended conclusions. They share a thoughtful pacing and a tone that values the process of questioning over the comfort of resolution.

Unlock the Full Story of Better Angels

Don't stop at just watching — explore Better Angels in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Better Angels is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Better Angels Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Better Angels, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Better Angels Summary

Better Angels Timeline

Track the full timeline of Better Angels with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Better Angels Timeline

Better Angels Spoiler-Free Summary

Get a quick, spoiler-free overview of Better Angels that covers the main plot points and key details without revealing any major twists or spoilers. Perfect for those who want to know what to expect before diving in.

Better Angels Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Better Angels

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Better Angels: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Better Angels