Countdown to Zero by Lucy Walker – Press conference

The press conference for Lucy Walker’s documentary, Countdown to Zero, was held this afternoon. The director was accompanied by Bruce Blair, Matt Brown, Dr. Gro Brundtland, Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan, Valerie Plame Wilson, Jeff Skoll, Diane Weyermann and Lawrence Bender.

Selected extracts.

Lucy Walker, director of the documentary, on the power of images:

I think the film has the power to trigger positive change in the world on this issue. Launching a debate on disarmament was a real challenge for us. Nuclear weapons changed everything in this world, except our mentalities.

Valerie Plame Wilson, former CIA agent in charge of the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, on the importance of presenting this film at the Festival de Cannes:

The Festival de Cannes has a special impact on people, and the possibility to speak here about disarmament is a genuine opportunity, a chance to serve this cause.

Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan on the importance of rallying to the cause of disarmament:

What we wish to do with this film, it’s for people to rally together and participate in the disarmament process. Everyone must feel involved and take part in this debate, even those of you in this room.

Lawrence Bender, documentary producer, on the question of the political preconceptions of the film:

Our film is neither republican, nor liberal, nor democratic. President Obama’s recent speech is in line with our message, but we are not seeking to have partisan ideas. We have been working on this documentary for three years.