Film: The Island President

This documentary film follows the rise to power of Mohamed Nasheed, a man once sent to prison for standing against the oppressive regime of his native Maldives.

Following his success in the 2008 election President Nasheed embarks on an ambitious quest to obtain agreement from all carbon producing countries to lower their emissions. If this is not achieved Nasheed believes that the results will be catastrophic for the Maldives as rising sea levels will submerge the islands.

Complicated negotiations begin leading to the Copenhagen climate change summit of 2009 where Nasheed emerges as a force to be reckoned with despite the limited bargaining power of his country.

Stunning footage, a dark past and a desperate plight make the Maldives an interesting subject matter and Nasheed comes across well as the political firebrand who doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty and his feet wet, literally.

The Island President is an educational, entertaining and fascinating account of the man himself and the islands he represents. Catch it in UK cinemas from 30th March 2012.

Thanks to Aim Publicity and Dogwoof for the screener.

Footnote: Mohamed Nasheed resigned as president of the Maldives in February 2012 in somewhat dubious circumstances.

Ric’s Rating: Highly Recommended