Watchlist: Why watch Orwell: 2 + 2 = 5
George Orwell wrote the book 1984 in 1948, and it was published the following year. Genre-wise, it’s been branded as science fiction (earlier in its life), dystopian future fiction, political fiction, social science fiction.

Sitting here in 2025—some seventy-seven years after publishing—I venture to say that it has never been more relevant a story than now.

And the new documentary presents that story well. (There’s a link to the trailer at the end of this article.)

Okay, so documentaries aren’t always the first thing you reach for on movie night. But trust me: Raoul Peck’s Orwell: 2 + 2 = 5 is different. It’s smart, stylish, and a little bit chilling in the best way. Here’s why you’ll want to check it out:

1. It Feels Weirdly Now
   This isn’t dusty history. Orwell’s worries about truth, lies, and power line up almost too well with the world we’re living in. You’ll catch yourself thinking, “Wait… are we already in 1984?”
2. It Actually Looks Cool
   No endless talking heads here. The movie mixes Orwell’s own words (voiced by Damian Lewis) with sharp visuals, real-world clips, and a moody vibe that keeps you hooked.
3. It Leaves You Thinking
   This isn’t popcorn entertainment, but it is the kind of film that makes you want to text a friend afterward and say, “Wow, we need to talk about this.”

⭐ Bottom line: If you’re in the mood for something thought-provoking and a little haunting, Orwell: 2 + 2 = 5 is 100% worth the watch.
Watch the trailer here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGMEOdPxpWs