A Community-Requested Film Screening

Orwell: 2+2=5 is a 2025 documentary film produced, written, and directed by Raoul Peck. It follows the career of George Orwell, particularly the lessons from his novel Nineteen Eighty-Four and how his political observations are still relevant today. Damian Lewis narrates the film as Orwell.

Through archive photos, newsreels, film clips, and notorious speeches, Raoul Peck investigates how early 20th century authoritarianism still echoes in contemporary life, especially during ongoing conflicts threatening democracy and public liberties.

Filmmaker Raoul Peck is best known for his 2017 film, I Am Not Your Negro, a documentary about author James Baldwin, which was nominated for an Oscar for Best Documentary and won the BAFTA for Best Documentary.

Admission is Pay-What-You-Can (suggested $10 to $15/ticket). Your ticket payments help pay for the Opera House's operating costs and make it possible for us to continue offering films, lectures and other programs. Thank you to Dr. Raymond and Mrs. Phyllis Smock who generously paid for the public performance license needed to screen this film to our community.

Year Released: 2025

Rating: R

Runtime: 2 hours

The historic Shepherdstown Opera House is a cozy vaudeville-style theater — advance reservations encouraged. Doors open 30 minutes before showtime. Popcorn, candy, soft drinks, beer & wine available for purchase (no outside food or drinks please). Lobby, theater & restroom are wheelchair accessible.

Hearing-impaired? Download the app AudioFetch on your phone (iPhone or Android) for use with Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids. More information available on OperaHouseLive.com.