Watch Detroit: Comeback City
- 2018
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8.5 (17)
Detroit: Comeback City is a documentary film released in 2018 that explores the history and revival of one of America's most iconic cities, Detroit. The film features interviews with key figures from the city, including CEO of Ford Motor Company, Bill Ford, as well as renowned actor J.K. Simmons, and rock legend Alice Cooper, all of whom share their personal connections to the Motor City.
The film begins by exploring the industrial boom that made Detroit the center of the automobile industry in the early 20th century, a time when the city was home to some of the world's leading car manufacturers, and when the auto industry provided life-changing employment opportunities for the city's inhabitants. Detroit was emblematic of the American Dream, a city that embodied hard work, innovation, and progress.
However, as the decades passed, cracks began to show in the city's foundation. The film delves deeply into the systemic issues that ultimately led to the city's dramatic decline. Political corruption and economic downturns hit the once-thriving city hard, and by the late 20th century, the Motor City was on life support.
Detroit: Comeback City examines the pivotal events that took place in the city during this time, including the 1967 Detroit riots, which were sparked by racial tensions and police brutality. The film delves into the impact this event had on the city and its inhabitants, and presents eyewitness accounts of the violence and destruction that took place.
Despite its bleak past, the film also explores the city's remarkable rebirth through the words of those who helped to bring it back to life. Detroit is a city that has faced immense challenges, but time and again it has demonstrated its resilience and ability to adapt and overcome.
Interviews with former mayor of Detroit, Dennis Archer, as well as current mayor, Mike Duggan, provide insights into the city's political landscape and the challenges faced by the local government in revitalizing the city.
Perhaps most heartening of all are the stories of everyday Detroiters who refused to give up on their home. Through community-based initiatives, grassroots organizations and voluntary work, many ordinary citizens have played an important role in helping Detroit to recover.
The film offers a diverse array of perspectives on everything from the city's cultural heritage to the role of the auto industry in its recovery. Alice Cooper discusses the city's rich history of music, while Bill Ford highlights the role that his company has played in Detroit's resurgence.
Throughout the film, a sense of hope and optimism emerges, as people continue to invest time, energy and resources into the city they love. Detroit: Comeback City is ultimately a tribute to both the city itself and the residents who have dedicated their lives to rebuilding it.
In conclusion, Detroit: Comeback City is an insightful and inspiring documentary film that provides an in-depth look at the history and revival of one of America's most important cities. With a wide range of perspectives and interviews from interesting figures, it offers a comprehensive and engaging look at how Detroit has overcome the challenges it has faced, and the people who are leading the way towards a brighter future.