Writing from London

Writing from London

Share this post

Writing from London
Writing from London
Roman Polanski, Alfred Dreyfus, and the absurdity of modern censorship

Roman Polanski, Alfred Dreyfus, and the absurdity of modern censorship

A great film no one wants to ban is, nevertheless, still banned

Nick Cohen's avatar
Nick Cohen
Nov 16, 2024
∙ Paid
78

Share this post

Writing from London
Writing from London
Roman Polanski, Alfred Dreyfus, and the absurdity of modern censorship
43
5
Share

A few days ago, after being sworn to secrecy, I was given a password to a site where I watched a striking, relevant, and superbly acted film, directed by Roman Polanski, and based on the work of Robert Harris.

You would like to see it, too, I hear you say.

You can’t.

It has been effectively banned throughout the English-speaking world.

The story of why we cannot watch any part of An Officer and a Spy beyond the trailer (below) shows the extent of the neuroticism cancel culture has brought.  

This piece is for paying subscribers. If you sign up, you will receive access to all articles, podcasts, debates, and archives. You will also help me earn a living and keep this show on the road! There’s a free trial on offer too.


A few days ago, in the suburban surroundings of the Phoenix cinema in Finchley, north London, a major film by a great director that positively hums with contemporary relevance received its first, and by the looks of it, only showing in the English-speaking world.

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to Writing from London to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 Nick Cohen
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share