Further Information

We are making a part-fiction film set in Iceland reflecting on the theme of direct democracy and political representation. We hope to stimulate reflection about the essence of democracy ~ governing for and by the people. The purpose of the film is to touch that essence, and to place democracy in the timeless context of natural evolution. The end result will be available online for free, after which we also aim to organise small meetings for screening and discussion.

TEAM

We are an international team of three: protagonist Gunnar Magnusson, cinematographer Delia Spatareanu and director Ayla van Kessel *more info on our profiles* We met at Schumacher College, studying Holistic Science and Economics for Transition, where we learned to work together in collaborative, caring and creative ways. This film is an expression of our individual views on evolving society, ethics and aesthetics.

For regular updates, find us on: www.facebook.com/concensusfilm

BUDGET

As much as possible we use existing sources. During our time here in Iceland, we mostly stay at Gunnar’s apartment in Kópavogur and with other people within our network. We're shooting with Delia's Canon 5D mark II. The beautiful landscape is our decor. The remaining costs include the use of quality film materials, travel expenses to shoot on location, and time spent on post-production and distribution. We don’t expect any significant revenue from the sales of the film. Because we see this as a social project, the film will be available for free online.

ON THE TITLE

Con census refers to “assessing together”. The Icelandic census of 1703 was the first complete census of any country, counting all citizens (“great and small, young and old”), and even the livestock. The celebrated Árni Magnusson (featuring as Arne Arnaeus in Halldór Laxness “Icelandic Bells”) was in charge of this census.

Can people be represented and governed on the basis of surveys and counting? What would it mean for someone to meet every fellow citizen? And is it possible for a politician to meet others without political bias or personal judgment?