Top Goon: Puppets take on politicians

Syria
Description: 

Top Goon: Diaries of a Little Dictator is a 13-episode series, broadcast on Youtube, that was created by an anonymous group of actors from within Syria who go by the name of Masasit Mati. With a simple set and finger puppet characters they impersonate Assad, along with generic figures such as “the peaceful protester” and “Shabih”, a member of the state-sponsored militia. Masasit Mati has taken the risk not only of speaking out against the regime but also of blatantly mocking it. In one episode, Assad is portrayed as a contestant in a game of “Who wants to Kill a Million”, where he is up against Hosni Mubarak and Moammar Gadhafi. 

Animations
Storytelling
Videos
Top Goon

While humour is an effective way for activists to undermine institutional power, as well as a means of catharsis for citizens, the risks are enormous in such a turbulent political situation. The internet offers a certain level of anonymity, but it is by no means safe from surveillance. Vigilance with regard to digital security and privacy is crucial.