The documentary “We, the Hated” offers an inside look at the climate activism group Just Stop Oil, capturing both their protests and the hostile reactions they encounter. Filmed by Rich Felgate, whose partner Indigo Rumbelow is a member of the group, the film provides a close, often raw perspective on the confrontations and tactics employed by the activists.

Just Stop Oil has gained notoriety for its disruptive protests, which include gluing themselves to roads, chaining their necks together with bike locks, and interrupting public spaces. One particularly controversial act occurred in October 2022, when campaigners threw tomato soup at Vincent Van Gogh’s painting Sunflowers. These actions have elicited strong negative responses from the public, with footage showing aggressive verbal abuse toward protesters—such as insults about their hygiene and social status—as well as physical altercations, including punching, kicking, and even a driver allegedly attempting to run down demonstrators with a van.

The documentary highlights the group’s determination to maintain their presence in the media spotlight, despite increasing public hostility. Just Stop Oil representatives regularly appear in televised interviews where they face skepticism and criticism, with some commentators arguing that the group’s confrontational tactics undermine their message. Critics suggest that by focusing on disrupting ordinary citizens rather than directly targeting fossil fuel companies or infrastructure, Just Stop Oil risks alienating potential supporters and diluting the urgency of their environmental concerns.

Nevertheless, activists maintain that their disruptive approach is necessary to draw attention to the climate crisis. They stress the immediate need for decisive action to prevent further environmental damage, arguing that conventional methods of protest have failed to produce sufficient change. The film also captures a diverse range of protesters, including individuals from different age groups and backgrounds, such as a middle-aged vicar managing Parkinson’s disease while participating in protests.

Looking ahead, Just Stop Oil views the upcoming 2024 UK general election as a potential turning point. The Labour Party has pledged to impose a ban on issuing new licenses for gas and oilfields, a development activists count as a political victory. However, recent government approval of the Jackdaw gas field project in the North Sea complicates this narrative, suggesting ongoing challenges in aligning political actions with environmental aims.

Overall, the documentary sheds light on the contentious relationship between Just Stop Oil and wider society, revealing the complexity of climate activism in a polarized public landscape.