
State of Control 2016
"Followed, Surveilled, Hacked, Jailed, Sentenced...Are You Next?"
Directed by Christian Johnston, *State of Control (2016)* plunges viewers into a gripping documentary that shadows two American filmmakers as they navigate the shadowy undercurrents of Tibetan activism during one of China's most oppressive periods.
Director: Christian Johnston
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is State of Control (2016) about?
*State of Control (2016)* follows two American filmmakers as they travel undercover through regions of Chinese-controlled Tibet, documenting the lives of activists fighting against state oppression. Their mission unfolds during a media blackout and heightened surveillance, revealing the risks and resilience of those who challenge authority.
Who directed State of Control?
The film was directed by Christian Johnston, bringing a journalist's eye to the dangerous world of undercover activism.
Who stars in State of Control?
The documentary features Tom Lantos as a key participant, alongside the two American filmmakers documenting the journey behind the camera.
Is State of Control (2016) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb, *State of Control (2016)* offers a rare, unfiltered look at Tibetan resistance and state surveillance—ideal for fans of politically charged documentaries. Its tense pacing and real-life stakes make it compelling viewing for those interested in modern activism and censorship.
How long is State of Control?
The documentary runs for 90 minutes.
About State of Control (2016) — A gripping documentary on Tibetan resistance and state oppression
Directed by Christian Johnston, *State of Control (2016)* plunges viewers into a gripping documentary that shadows two American filmmakers as they navigate the shadowy undercurrents of Tibetan activism during one of China's most oppressive periods. Their clandestine journey begins in the tense hubs of Tibetan resistance in India and Nepal, before pushing deep into the closed-off regions of Tibet itself—where a sweeping media blackout has silenced dissent since 2008. Risking exposure at every turn, they seek out courageous activists whose peaceful protests against systemic oppression put their lives on the line. The film captures a chilling atmosphere of surveillance, digital infiltration, and state-sponsored intimidation, painting a stark portrait of resistance in the face of relentless control.
Blending raw undercover footage with intimate interviews, *State of Control (2016)* strips away propaganda to reveal the human stories behind headlines. Johnston's lens exposes not just the tactics of oppression, but the quiet defiance that persists in even the most closed societies. It's a tense, eye-opening exploration of modern censorship and the fragile edges of freedom of speech.