Attacking The Devil is a riveting documentary that tells the story of the struggle to hold the British establishment accountable for the widespread use of toxic chemicals that caused birth defects and cancer in thousands of people. The film centers on the tireless efforts of Sir Harold Evans, the former editor of The Sunday Times, who launched a groundbreaking investigation into the health risks of thalidomide, a drug that was used to treat morning sickness in pregnant women during the 1950s and 1960s.
The documentary is a culmination of more than a decade of research, interviews, and archival footage, offering an in-depth look at the political, legal, and ethical battles that took place during this dark chapter of the medical industry. Through interviews with former journalists, medical experts, lawyers, and activists, Attacking The Devil tells the gripping story of how a group of passionate individuals fought to expose the truth about the dangerous effects of thalidomide and other chemicals.
One of the most striking features of this documentary is the wealth of historical footage that has been unearthed and assembled into a cohesive narrative. We see Sir Harold Evans, a crusading editor, fighting to publish articles and editorials that call out the government for its failure to regulate the use of thalidomide. We also see powerful testimonies from the victims of thalidomide, who describe the physical and emotional toll that the drug had on their lives.
What makes Attacking The Devil an especially compelling film is the way it looks beyond the immediate effects of thalidomide to expose the systemic corruption and collusion that allowed the drug to be sold in the first place. The documentary takes us behind the scenes, into the inner workings of the pharmaceutical industry, the government, and the media, showing us the complex web of interests that conspired to suppress the damning evidence about thalidomide's dangers.
Importantly, Attacking The Devil does not only focus on the past. Its message is also very relevant to contemporary issues around public health and corporate responsibility. The film makes it clear that the struggle to hold powerful institutions accountable for their actions is an ongoing one, and that it is vital to maintain a spirit of skepticism and critical thinking in the face of industry pressure.
Overall, Attacking The Devil is a thought-provoking and deeply moving film that will appeal to anyone interested in the history of medicine, the power of investigative journalism, or the perils of corporate power. It is also an important reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it feels like the odds are against you. Regardless of your background or knowledge of thalidomide, this is a documentary that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
