Knock Down the House Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Four women try to play political ‘whack-a-mole’ with entrenched politicians, and one of them actually manages to knock one down, inspiring everyone to maybe consider running for office someday.

🍿 Knock Down the House: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Underdogs Emerge

The documentary follows four women—Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Cori Bush, Amy Vilela, and Paula Jean Swearengin—as they launch grassroots campaigns for Congress during the 2018 midterm elections. Each comes from humble backgrounds and is driven by personal experiences with systemic issues. They represent a new wave of political candidates challenging the established order.

Battling the Establishment

The film highlights the challenges these women face as they take on powerful incumbents backed by corporate interests and entrenched political machines. They struggle with fundraising, media attention, and the skepticism of voters accustomed to traditional politics. Their campaigns focus on issues like healthcare, economic inequality, and environmental justice.

AOC’s Historic Victory

A significant portion of the documentary focuses on Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign in New York’s 14th congressional district. It chronicles her journey from a bartender in the Bronx to a political phenomenon. The film captures her grassroots organizing, her connection with voters, and her surprising victory over incumbent Joe Crowley, a high-ranking Democrat.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez): A bartender from the Bronx who ran for U.S. House and became a prominent voice in Congress.
• Cori Bush (Cori Bush): A registered nurse and pastor who ran for Congress in Missouri’s First District, driven by social justice concerns.
• Paula Jean Swearengin (Paula Jean Swearengin): A coal miner’s daughter who ran for Senate in West Virginia, advocating for environmental protection.
• Amy Vilela (Amy Vilela): A woman who ran for Congress in Nevada, motivated by her experience with the healthcare system after her daughter’s death.
• Joe Crowley (Joe Crowley): The incumbent Congressman who was unexpectedly defeated by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: “For everyday people, just trying to survive in America is a revolutionary act.” – This quote encapsulates the film’s theme of the challenges faced by ordinary Americans in the political system.
• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: “Hope is not something that you have. Hope is something that you create, with your actions.” – Said when discussing the need for active participation in the political process.
• Cori Bush: “We’re not just running a campaign, we’re building a movement.” – During her run for Congress, highlighting the broader goals of the grassroots effort.
• Amy Vilela: “My daughter didn’t have to die.” – Speaking about her motivation to fight for healthcare reform after her daughter’s preventable death.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 Knock Down the House Reviews

Personal Review

I was really moved watching ‘Knock Down the House.’ Seeing these women, especially AOC, pour their hearts and souls into their campaigns was incredibly inspiring. I especially loved the scenes showing AOC’s genuine connection with her community. It really made me feel like change is possible, even when the odds are stacked against you. Watching them struggle and persevere made me want to get more involved in my own community. It’s a powerful reminder that everyday people can make a difference.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “People interested in politics”
  • “Fans of documentaries”
  • “Supporters of progressive causes”
  • “Viewers curious about Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s rise to prominence”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Discussion of political issues”
  • “Some strong language”
  • “Themes of economic hardship and healthcare challenges”

Professional Reviews

• Sundance Film Festival: “Knock Down the House is an inspiring look at grassroots campaigning, highlighting the dedication and struggles of women challenging the political establishment. It’s a timely reminder of the power of individual action and the importance of representation in government.
• Variety: “The film excels in its intimate portrayal of the candidates, showcasing their vulnerability, determination, and genuine desire to serve their communities. It’s a compelling and emotionally resonant documentary that transcends political divides.

Audience Reactions

AOC’s victory over Joe Crowley was seen as a huge upset and inspired many viewers.: Viewers praised the film for its inspiring message and showcasing the hard work of grassroots campaigns.

Many felt inspired by the authenticity of the women and their dedication to their communities.: Audiences felt this film transcends politics and is about average everyday individuals running to make a difference.

Overall Consensus: An inspiring and emotionally resonant documentary that highlights the power of grassroots movements and the importance of representation in politics. Most feel like this film captures the underdog story very well.

Awards

1. Sundance Film Festival (Festival Favorite Award)- 2019

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The documentary gained significant attention for its intimate portrayal of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign, providing a rare behind-the-scenes look at a grassroots political movement.”
• “Director Rachel Lears followed four progressive female candidates during the 2018 midterm elections, capturing their struggles and triumphs in real-time.”
• “The film’s success at the Sundance Film Festival helped catapult it to a wider audience, highlighting the growing interest in progressive politics and outsider candidates.”

🖥️ How to Watch Knock Down the House?

Knock Down the House is available to stream on Netflix. Check your local Netflix availability as it may vary by region. Currently there are no options to rent or buy the film on platforms like Prime Video or Apple TV.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Knock Down the House, you might like these similar films:

• Boys State (2020): A documentary that observes a group of high school students participating in a mock government exercise, exploring themes of political ambition and leadership.
• The War Room (1993): An inside look at Bill Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign, providing a real-time view of campaign strategies and personalities.
• Citizen Koch (2013): Examines the influence of money in politics, particularly focusing on the Koch brothers’ impact on American political discourse and policy.
• All In: The Fight for Democracy (2020): Examines the history and ongoing threat of voter suppression in the United States, particularly targeting minority communities.

🛒 Knock Down the House Related Products

• AOC Talking Bobblehead: A collectible bobblehead featuring Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, with sound bites of her iconic speeches. A fun and unique way to show your support and add a bit of political flair to your desk.
• Knock Down the House (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Relive the powerful moments of the documentary with the official soundtrack. Includes inspiring tracks that capture the emotional journey of the candidates.
• Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: The Biography: An in-depth biography exploring the life and political journey of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, from her upbringing in the Bronx to her rise as a prominent voice in Congress. Gain a deeper understanding of her motivations and the challenges she overcame.
• “Run for Something” : A Real-Talk Guide to Fixing Elections Yourself: An in-depth guide to running for office.

🎧 Soundtrack

Knock Down the House features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Silent Night” – performed by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Jesus mocked on the cross – #crucifixion #crucified #jesus #cross #crucificado #crucifixión

Ever wondered what the actual crucifixion looked like? This short video gives you a glimpse into the intense mockery and suffering Jesus endured. It’s a pretty powerful visual!

✨ Rate