In April of 2021, Ojai-based filmmakers Josh and Rebecca Harrell Tickell, known for their environmentally-centered films such as Kiss the Ground and Fuel, debuted their latest project The Revolution Generation, a combination film, book, and college lecture series focused on inspiring the millennial generation and their potential to change the world.
organization, activist and artist Xiuhtezcatl Martinez fights for indigenous rights and representation, and Steven Olikara who is the founder of the Millennial Action Project. The diverse voices are woven together through the storytelling skills of the Tickells who treat the subject with respect and admiration, providing a cohesive voice for the members of a generation that are often misunderstood or misrepresented.
The film highlights key moments in culture that serve as turning points for millennials (defined in their book as those born between 1980 and 2000), ranging from presidential campaigns to the Standing Rock and Occupy Wall Street demonstrations. The film addresses common misconceptions about the generation, namely their entitlement and laziness, and offers a different perspective, one that highlights their dedication and commitment to causes and their participation in politics, in activism, and as heads of nonprofits.
Rebecca Harrell Tickell, a millennial herself, showcases the potential and dedication that the generation is capable of achieving.
The film acknowledges half the people on earth are under the age of 35 - more than were alive in 1950 and they face a disproportionate amount of economic, humanitarian, environmental, and political hardships.
The film has already received several awards from film festivals around the country including Best Production at the Gladiator Film Festival as well as Best Screenplay and Best Producer at the DOC LA Awards.
The documentary is narrated by Michelle Rodriguez, known for her roles in the Fast & Furious franchise and the television series Lost, who is also known for her activism both on and off screen. In addition to her support of several foundations including The Foundation for AIDS Research, the Boys & Girls Club of America, Feeding America, and the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, she has spoken out as an animal rights activist for Unchained TV, where she advocated for the rights of all sentient beings. She brings her passion for activism to the documentary, providing a narrative that compliments visually engaging graphics that present complex concepts in an informative and inspirational way. The documentary features several other millennial activists like actress Shailene Woodley who attended the Standing Rock protests back in 2016, as well as those working behind the scenes at nonprofits and organizations advocating for change. Christine “Cici” Battle serves as Executive Director of the Young People For
The film was produced during the pandemic at the Tickell’s Big Picture Ranch, an Ojai-based production studio that doubles as a sustainable 5-acre avocado farm. The space utilizes the regenerative farming practices the filmmakers are known for advocating. The location serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder that the choices of individuals can make a difference on both an independent and communitybased level.
Ojai Magazine spoke with the Tickells about the film, the millennial generation and the role of Ojai in providing and supporting sustainable solutions to help save the planet. Ojai Magazine: What do you hope Revolution Generation will provide to its younger audience? Rebecca Harrell and Josh Tickell: Our greatest hope is that this film offers tools, solutions and a new perspective for young people who feel disempowered by the current environmental and political landscape. The film is not only a historical movie with lots of information about why today’s youth generation is inheriting these problems, but also how they can take the reins of power to solve these concurrent crises. OM: As a millennial, what are some of the biggest challenges the generation is facing today? R&J: The biggest single challenge that will, in time, dwarf COVID and political gridlock of today, is the climate. The most important
by GRANT PHILLIPS
