Nanfu Wang's recent documentary, "Night Is Not Eternal," presents an intriguing exploration of authoritarian rule and its impact on societies, with a focus on China, the United States, and Cuba. Making use of her own experiences and those of her friend, pro-democracy activist Rosa Maria Payá, the documentary underscores the importance of collective power in resisting oppressive governance.
"Night Is Not Eternal," which made its debut on HBO on Nov. 19, begins by showcasing the relationship between Wang and Payá. The film reflects on Wang's struggles filming her first project, "Hooligan Sparrow," prompting discussions about civil resistance in authoritarian regimes. It weaves in the compelling backstory of Payá, the daughter of Oswaldo Payá, a renowned pro-democracy activist in Cuba, and her experiences with state harassment and exile.
The narrative hits its stride around 2017 when Payá, compelled by a protest, returns to Havana from Miami. We see Wang transition from a narrator to an observer, capturing Payá’s struggles and triumphs in returning home and standing up to government pressure. Throughout, the documentary draws parallels between the experiences of the two women, dealing with labels of dissent in their home nations and their affinity with the United States.
"Night Is Not Eternal" gradually moves through the history of Cuba, its resistance, and its strained relationship with the U.S, providing context to Payá and Wang's fight for democracy. Throughout the narrative, the film hints at currents of surprise and confrontation. Particularly striking is when Wang notices Payá's association with Donald Trump during the 2016 U.S. presidential elections, leading her to question her friend’s motivations and political loyalties.
The documentary acknowledges the complexities of assimilating into foreign political landscapes, particularly when immigrants from dictatorships might align with figures like Trump. These moments compel Wang to vocalize her disappointment and attempt to reconcile their political differences.
In a striking commentary, Wang differentiates between socio-economic structures and authoritarian rule. She argues that neither communism nor capitalism inherently fosters consolidated rule, challenging Payá's belief that communism needs to be eradicated entirely. It soon becomes clear that their political ideals pave the way for ideological clashes, significantly straining their friendship.
Despite emotional turbulence, the film maintains a hopeful tone, underscored by footage of recent protests in both China and Cuba. Ultimately, "Night Is Not Eternal" is a testament to people power and serves as a reminder of the subservience of government to its people.
