What Happens in Brexit: The Movie?
The complete story of Brexit: The Movie, from the first scene to the last, in 214 words (about 1 minute). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 4 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
This film presents a detailed argument for why it would be in the United Kingdom’s best interest to exit the European Union. The core premise focuses on the perceived lack of accountability within EU institutions and suggests that Britain should adopt a Swiss economic model to establish new trade agreements globally.
The documentary posits that while the UK might not strictly require a trade deal after leaving, the EU will likely pursue one because they are desperate to maintain the flow of goods into British markets. This is contrasted with the declining percentage of UK trade heading into the EU. Regarding this shift, Daniel Hannan observes that the trade levels are “falling virtually by the minute,” while Ruth Lea asserts:
“They need us more than we need them.”
Further supporting this view, David Davis points to Britain’s long history of global trade dating back to Sir Francis Drake, suggesting that independence from the EU will unlock further trade opportunities. Additionally, Matt Ridley believes that leaving the union could lead to a level of prosperity that is currently unimaginable.
Ultimately, the film suggests that escaping “fortress Europe” could trigger an extraordinary economic renaissance, allowing Britain to return to its 19th-century status as a global commercial giant by embracing free trade and removing restrictive EU over-regulations.
Brexit: The Movie Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “The Case for Leaving the EU Is Made” to “The Promise of an Economic Renaissance”.
- 1
The Case for Leaving the EU Is Made
The film presents its central argument that it is in the interest of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union. It points to the lack of accountability of the EU's institutions as a key reason for departure. This overall case for withdrawal frames the entire documentary.
- 2
The Swiss Economic Model Is Proposed
The documentary argues that Britain should follow the Swiss economic model after leaving the EU. It calls for the United Kingdom to strike new trade deals with the rest of the world. This proposal sets out the positive economic vision at the heart of the film.
- 3
No Trade Deal With the EU Is Needed
The film asserts that the United Kingdom will not require a trade deal with the European Union after leaving. It explains that Britain's future commerce does not depend on formal negotiations with the bloc. This claim forms a key pillar of the documentary's economic argument.
- 4
The EU's Desperate Need for British Goods
The narrator predicts that the UK will likely secure a trade deal with the EU anyway. According to the film, the Union is 'desperate to keep its goods flowing into the UK.' This is presented as evidence that Britain would hold the upper hand in any future negotiations.
- 5
UK Trade With the EU Is Declining
The documentary highlights that the percentage of UK trade going into the rest of the European Union is declining. It presents this downward trend as proof that Britain's economic future lies outside the bloc. The shrinking share of EU trade is used to calm fears about leaving the single market.
- 6
Daniel Hannan: Trade 'Tumbling by the Minute'
Daniel Hannan speaks about Britain's shrinking trade with the EU during an interview segment. He states that the percentage is 'falling virtually by the minute' and is 'tumbling while we are doing this interview.' His remarks reinforce the film's message that reliance on the EU market is rapidly fading.
- 7
Ruth Lea: 'They Need Us More Than We Need Them'
Ruth Lea delivers one of the film's most memorable statements on trade. She declares that EU nations 'need us more than we need them.' Her comment underscores the argument that Britain holds the stronger economic hand once it leaves the Union.
- 8
David Davies on Britain's Trading Heritage
David Davies MP looks back at Britain's long established history of international trade. He points to the days of Sir Francis Drake as evidence of the nation's seafaring and commercial roots. According to Davies, this heritage proves that Britain can flourish once again as an independent trading nation.
- 9
A Future of New Trade Deals
The film expresses confidence that an independent United Kingdom will be able to strike further trade deals. Once out of the European Union, Britain would regain the power to negotiate its own commercial agreements. The documentary presents this restored freedom as a major opportunity for the country.
- 10
Matt Ridley's Vision of Unimaginable Prosperity
Matt Ridley shares his optimistic outlook for a post-EU Britain. He believes that by leaving the European Union, the UK 'could have prosperity on a level that we can't even imagine now.' His comments portray leaving the bloc as an unprecedented opportunity rather than a risk.
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- 11
Escaping 'Fortress Europe'
The film's narrator describes escaping 'fortress Europe' as a possible new start for Britain. Leaving the EU is framed not as isolation but as a gateway to global engagement. According to the documentary, this escape would allow the nation to chart an entirely new course.
- 12
A Return to 19th Century Trading Greatness
The narrator looks back to the 19th Century, when Britain stood as a global commercial and trading giant. The film argues that leaving the EU could mark a return to that historic role at last. This vision of restored greatness is presented as an inspiring goal for the nation's future.
- 13
Embracing Free Trade Over EU Regulation
The documentary urges Britain to embrace free trade as part of its post-EU future. It criticizes what it calls the 'stultifying restrictions' of EU over-regulation. Shedding these rules, the film argues, would unleash the country's full commercial potential.
- 14
The Promise of an Economic Renaissance
The film closes with its boldest prediction for a post-Brexit Britain. It declares that embracing free trade and escaping EU restrictions carries 'the potential for an extraordinary economic renaissance.' This vision of renewal serves as the documentary's final message to viewers.
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