Watch Chicago 10

Chicago 10 is a documentary-style feature film from the year 2007 that explores the infamous Chicago Seven trial of 1969. Directed by Brett Morgen, the film uses a combination of archival footage, animated reenactments, and contemporary music to provide a unique look at one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. The Chicago Seven trial followed the violent clashes between police and anti-war protestors at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The government charged eight activists, including Abbie Hoffman, Jerry Rubin, and Tom Hayden, with conspiracy to incite a riot. The trial became a symbol of the growing rift between the counterculture and the establishment, with the defendants cast as heroes by some and criminals by others.

One of the most striking aspects of Chicago 10 is its use of animation to tell parts of the story. The film features both traditional 2D animation and computer-generated imagery to create unique visualizations of the events leading up to and during the trial. This stylized approach adds a layer of surrealism to the already chaotic proceedings, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation and the disconnect between the authorities and the protestors.

In addition to the animation, Chicago 10 includes interviews with some of the key players in the trial. Jeffrey Wright voices Black Panther Party co-founder Bobby Seale, who was initially included in the trial but later separated from the other defendants. Nick Nolte portrays Judge Julius Hoffman, who presided over the trial and gained notoriety for his perceived bias against the defendants. Roy Scheider provides narration for the film, helping to contextualize the events and provide additional background information.

One of the most compelling elements of Chicago 10 is its use of contemporary music. The film features music from a variety of artists, including Rage Against the Machine, Eminem, and Black Sabbath. This creates a vivid contrast between the politics of the 1960s and the issues facing America in the 21st century, highlighting the relevance of the Chicago Seven trial to modern audiences. The soundtrack adds a sense of urgency and energy to the film, reinforcing the idea that the events of 1969 still resonate today.

Despite its unconventional style, Chicago 10 is a well-researched and engaging film. It provides a clear overview of the trial and its historical significance, while also delving into the personalities and motivations of the people involved. The film is also a commentary on the nature of protest and dissent in America, questioning whether peaceful resistance is enough to effect real change in a system that often seems to be rigged against it.

Overall, Chicago 10 is a powerful and thought-provoking film that sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history. It is a unique blend of documentary and artistry that successfully captures the spirit of the time and forces the viewer to think critically about the issues at hand. Whether you are interested in the trial itself or just want to experience an innovative and engaging film, Chicago 10 is definitely worth a watch.

Chicago 10 is a 2007 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 69.