A24, renowned for its groundbreaking films like “The Zone of Interest” and “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” is currently one of the most prominent movie production companies. So, when news broke about their upcoming documentary on the January 6th Capitol attack, directed by a pair of Oscar-winning filmmakers, my curiosity was immediately piqued.
Unexpectedly, while watching “The Sixth,” I couldn’t help but draw parallels to A24’s earlier drama, “Civil War.” The documentary feels like a real-life rendition of the unsettling fictional portrayal of a divided US in “Civil War,” adding another layer of depth to an already intense subject matter.
Directed by Sean Fine and Andrea Nix Fine, “The Sixth” features interviews with six individuals directly impacted by the events of January 6th. From police officers to congressional aides and a photographer, each perspective offers a personal lens through which to view the narrative, rather than a purely political one.
Andrea Fine emphasized this approach, stating in an interview with Politico, “Every single one of our characters is serving the public in different ways.” She highlighted how their dedication to their roles, despite the challenges they faced, ultimately brought a sense of hope to the film. Their commitment to serving the public, even amidst adversity, resonates as a beacon of optimism in an increasingly disillusioned political landscape.
However, despite the importance of the documentary’s subject matter, there’s an air of mystery surrounding its release strategy. Initially slated for streaming on Prime Video, it ended up exclusively available for rent or purchase on Apple’s VOD store. This shift in distribution raises questions about the film’s accessibility and the motivations behind the decision.
If “The Sixth” is deemed significant enough to produce, then ensuring its widespread visibility should be a priority. By limiting its availability, there’s a risk of hindering its impact and depriving audiences of essential insights into a pivotal moment in history.
