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Detropia is a documentary film directed by Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady and takes place in the city of Detroit, which is known as the quintessential American industrial city. Through intimate interviews, stunning cinematography, and fantastic original music, the film explores the decline of the city in the wake of economic hardship, social unrest, and political corruption.

The film opens with shots of abandoned buildings, empty streets, and vast stretches of barren, decaying neighborhoods. A voiceover speaks of Detroit's glory days, the Motor City of Motown, and the birthplace of the American auto industry, but also explains how it has been in a state of decline for several years. The city's population has dwindled, the abandoned buildings that once were home to thriving businesses and industries now lie in ruins, and the economy has taken hit after hit with unemployment at staggering levels.

Despite the gloom and doom of Detroit, the film focuses on a handful of people who live and work there and who are trying to make a go of it. The film follows the city's main points of interest, such as the Detroit Auto Show, which has become a glitzy symbol of the auto industry, and a local urban farmer who works to bring fresh produce to city residents. The film gives us a glimpse into the lives of these people who keep the city alive despite all the odds against them.

Throughout the film, we meet a wide range of Detroit residents, from those who are optimistic about the city's future to those who have long since given up hope, as well as those who are in-between. There are union workers who fight to keep their jobs while trying to stay afloat, artists who dream of using the city's empty buildings as canvases for their creativity, and entrepreneurs who see the potential for a revitalization.

One of the central themes of the film is the political corruption that has played a significant role in the city's decline. The film features interviews with several mayors and other politicians, as well as the city's residents, who speak out about the policies and practices that have contributed to the decline of the city.

Finally, the film offers a look at the potential for revitalization that Detroit offers. Many residents of the city are working together to create jobs and businesses that will help rebuild the local economy. In this regard, the film is as much about the hope and resilience of Detroit's people as it is about the city's decline.

In conclusion, Detropia is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers an intimate look into the lives of people who are struggling to survive in a city that is facing tremendous challenges. The film explores the many factors that have led to Detroit's decline, but also offers a glimpse into the potential for revival. Everything comes together in a beautiful way, and the climactic moments of the film deliver an impact that will stay with the viewer long after the film ends. Highly recommended for anyone interested in the history and future of Detroit or anyone who wants to see inspiring examples of what people can achieve in the face of adversity.

Detropia is a 2012 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5 and a MetaScore of 68.