Conservative Docu-series 'Bucks County, USA' Makes Waves at Sundance
Venture capitalist Paul Martino's docu-series, boosted by conservative discourse, features at the Sundance Film Festival.
A pie chart displays the distribution of total venture capital invested in 2014, highlighting the United States as the dominant player with $52.1 billion, followed by China ($15.5 billion), Europe ($10.6 billion), India ($5.2 billion), Israel ($1.9 billion), and Canada ($1.4 billion).
The recent Sundance Film Festival saw an unexpected entry: Bucks County, USA, a docu-series featuring venture capitalist and conservative activist Paul Martino. The series, which dives into the political complexities of life in a swing state, attributes its presence at Sundance to the influence of President Donald Trump’s recent election victory.
This five-part series centers on two teenagers, Evi and Vanessa, as they navigate a politically divided friendship in Bucks County, one of the pivotal bellwether regions in the 2022 elections. By showcasing personal anecdotes, the series aims to teach audiences about coexistence amidst differing political views.
Martino, who plays a key role in the series as Vanessa’s father, credits Trump’s electoral success with fostering a broader political discourse, even making its way into film circles historically known for their liberal sway. He suggests that the festival’s selection of the series highlights a shift towards more balanced dialogues under Trump’s leadership.
The premiere in Utah marked a contentious yet intellectually stimulating gathering. Martino faced criticism from some audience members not only for his personal beliefs but also for his activist work that influenced school policies during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, his firm stance on open dialogue instead of resistance was met with applause.
In post-screening discussions, Martino emphasized the importance of factual representation over bias, stating, "When the facts are told, us on the right look pretty damn rational." His sentiments echoed the perceived value in bridging the political divide, which is the central thesis of Bucks County, USA.
As the series continues to spark discussions, it stands as a testament to the potential shifts in political narrative representation, urging viewers to reconsider the value of understanding opposing perspectives. This docu-series not only highlights the polarizing nature of current American politics but also the power of dialogue to bridge divides.
