Storyville presents an intriguing documentary, War Game, that offers a unique perspective on the threat posed by the Capitol attack on 6 January 2021. The film immerses audiences in an intense and unscripted role-playing exercise, elevating the sense of danger and political intrigue.
The documentary follows a diverse group of US defence, intelligence, and elected policymakers from across the political spectrum as they engage in a simulated scenario. In this fictional narrative, a contested 2024 presidential election sets the stage for a political coup, with rogue members of the US military backing the plot.
Adding to the tension, the participants are given only six hours to deal with this high-stakes challenge, mirroring the time constraints often present in real-world crisis management. The scenario unfolds with a fictional president of the United States and their advisors at the centre, facing a grave threat to American democracy.
As the clock ticks, the group must make critical decisions and strategise their response to the coup, all while exploring the potential consequences of their actions. War Game provides a thought-provoking exploration of the delicate balance between national security and political stability, highlighting the challenges faced by those in positions of power.
War Game airs on BBC Four on Tuesday 1 October 2024 at 10:00 PM.