A new documentary portrait examines the career of photographer and activist Misan Harriman and his documentation of anti-racist demonstrations [1].

The film arrives as Harriman faces scrutiny over his public profile, highlighting the tension between his artistic contributions to social justice and his current public standing.

"Shoot the People" focuses on Harriman's trajectory as a filmmaker and photographer. The project explores his role in capturing the visual history of movements such as Black Lives Matter and demonstrations regarding Gaza [1]. The documentary captures how Harriman was catapulted into a new career after turning his camera to anti-racist demonstrations [1].

According to a review by The Guardian, the film was completed before a row broke out in May regarding some of Harriman's social media posts [1]. This timing creates a disconnect between the portrait presented in the film and the current climate surrounding the artist, a dynamic the review notes as a looming shadow over the work [1].

Harriman's work in the U.S. and United Kingdom has focused on the intersection of art and activism [1]. By documenting the energy and scale of street protests, he transitioned from a traditional photography role into a prominent figure within social justice circles [1].

The documentary serves as a record of this transition, providing a visual archive of the protests he attended. However, the recent criticism suggests that the public perception of the artist has shifted since the filming concluded [1].

“Misan Harriman was catapulted into a new career after turning his camera to anti-racist demonstrations”

The release of this documentary underscores the volatility of public reputation in the digital age. Because the film was completed prior to the May 2026 social media controversy, it functions as a time capsule of Harriman's ascent, while the subsequent backlash complicates how audiences will consume his activism and art.