Homegrown: An Engaging Film Review You Won’t Want to Miss | Eye For Film

The documentary “Homegrown” dives into the world of Trump supporters, showing that they are not a single, mindless group. The film highlights how diverse and complex these individuals can be, often holding surprising views. It reveals how ordinary people can be swept up in political movements, sometimes leading to unsettling actions.

Take Chris, for instance. He’s busy decorating a nursery for his soon-to-arrive baby while enthusiastically sharing conspiracy theories about a stolen election. Chris believes he’s fighting for democracy, convinced that Trump is the only one who can protect America from a supposed takeover by groups like Antifa. He lacks real proof but trusts what his circle is saying. Throughout the film, voices from other sides, including Antifa, offer differing perspectives, leaving viewers questioning whom to believe.

Then there’s Thad. He feels a sense of distrust towards Antifa but sympathizes with Black Lives Matter. Thad is a passionate Latino activist who has found his political voice through emotional experiences, like his reaction to Michael Moore’s “Fahrenheit 9/11.” Though the film doesn’t explore how he shifted his views, it portrays him as a caring person, concerned about the increasing violence in activism, yet drawn toward aggressive responses himself.

The third key figure, Randy, is more deeply entrenched in the MAGA movement. He organizes events and embodies the grassroots spirit crucial to many political movements. Randy keeps himself and others motivated through camaraderie and music, often drowning out any doubts with patriotic songs.

Through the lives of these three men and a few others, the documentary sheds light on familiar yet complex political events. We witness heated rhetoric, moments of unexpected humor, and understand how group dynamics can bring out different sides of individuals. Chris, for instance, is suddenly unprepared for the intensity of a crowd during protests.

The film features recognizable symbols—Trump flags, slogans, and even confrontational gatherings where some express pride in their heritage while simultaneously bemoaning the state of the modern world. There’s a recurring theme where individuals grapple with significant political ideas but often revert to comforting groupthink, hindering genuine understanding.

Are these men extremists? While they certainly have extreme views, not all align with the most radical elements. Chris, for example, worries about health risks from political rallies, showing a more personal side compared to those who espouse wild conspiracy theories. The film captures these moments of tension and uncertainty, especially on January 6, 2021, when everything unfolds violently at the Capitol. The fallout leaves many feeling betrayed, including one of the participants who questions Trump’s actions.

By the end, “Homegrown” offers a snapshot of a dynamic and often misunderstood group at a pivotal moment in history. Without imposing a clear narrative, it lets the viewer contemplate these complex human stories and the broader implications for society. This thought-provoking documentary holds up a mirror to a polarized landscape, reminding us of the diverse motivations that can exist within any political movement.

Reviewed on: 02 Mar 2025