Documentary Film and Grenadian History: The Contributions of Forward Ever: The Killing of a Revolution

Abstract

This paper will examine the historical relevance of Bruce Paddington’s newly reedited online version of 149-minute documentary entitled Forward Ever: The Killing of a Revolution, which focuses on the period from 1973 to 2011. Led by the charismatic Maurice Bishop, the small island nation captured the imagination and hopes of many in the Caribbean. Bishop’s government was supported by the Cuban revolution. Because of that support, the United States took notice. The United States could not tolerate another “communist” country in its lake. The government was undermined and weakened by the State Department, and likely the CIA. The People’s Revolutionary Government imploded. Maurice Bishop and seven cabinet ministers and supporters were executed in Fort Rupert on October 19, 1983. The United States invaded six days later, bringing the revolution to an end. The film captures the era in interviews, photos, and music.