Watch Freeway: Crack in the System

Freeway: Crack in the System is a gripping and insightful documentary that delves into the origins and lasting effects of America's war on drugs. Produced and directed by Marc Levin, the film follows the rise and fall of 'Freeway' Ricky Ross, a notorious drug kingpin who became an unwitting pawn in the government's efforts to combat narcotics trafficking in the 1980s.

The film opens with Ross recounting his early years in South Central Los Angeles, where he grew up in poverty and turned to drug dealing as a means of escaping his circumstances. Using archival footage and interviews with Ross, as well as members of his family and former associates, the film paints a picture of a man who was both ruthless and resourceful in his pursuit of wealth and power. Ross ultimately became one of the most successful and feared drug dealers in the country, making millions of dollars a day selling crack cocaine throughout California and beyond.

However, Ross's empire came crashing down when he was arrested in 1989 and sentenced to life in prison without parole. It was only later revealed that Ross had unwittingly been a pawn in the government's efforts to fund covert operations in Central America through the sale of drugs. The film dives deep into the story of how the government facilitated and profited from the sale of crack cocaine, ultimately leading to mass incarceration, the destruction of communities, and the devastating effects of the drug epidemic that still persist today.

Throughout the film, Freeway: Crack in the System features interviews with experts and insiders who shed light on the larger social and political factors that contributed to the rise of crack cocaine and the subsequent war on drugs. These include former government officials, academics, journalists, and activists who provide valuable insights into the complex web of politics and policies that allowed the drug epidemic to spiral out of control. The film also highlights the role of grassroots organizations and individuals who have fought to bring attention to the injustices and inequities of the criminal justice system, including Eric Sterling, a former counsel to the US House Judiciary Committee who played a key role in drafting the mandatory minimum drug sentencing laws that have been criticized for their disproportionate impacts on people of color.

Freeway: Crack in the System is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on one of the most significant chapters in America's recent history. Through its compelling storytelling and incisive analysis, the film challenges viewers to consider the consequences of our policies and actions and to work together to create a more just and equitable society. Whether you are a student of history, a concerned citizen, or simply someone who wants to better understand the issues facing our country today, this film is an essential watch.

Freeway: Crack in the System is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.