Watch Wetback: The Undocumented Documentary

Wetback: The Undocumented Documentary from 2005 is a gripping and eye-opening exploration of the plight of undocumented immigrants in the United States. The film, produced and directed by Arturo Perez Torres, draws upon the personal stories of several immigrants as well as interviews with activists, politicians, and experts to offer a comprehensive look at the challenges and injustices facing this vulnerable population.

The film opens with a dramatic recreation of the border crossing experience, showing the vast expanse of the Sonoran desert and the brutal conditions faced by those attempting to make the journey. From there, the film delves into the perspectives of those who have made it to the other side, presenting a range of experiences and perspectives that challenge many of the stereotypes and assumptions surrounding undocumented immigrants.

One of the most powerful aspects of the film is its focus on the intersection between the personal and the political. Through interviews with immigrants and their families, the film gives a human face to the statistics and policy debates that often dominate discussions of immigration. From the father who was separated from his children for years due to deportation, to the young woman struggling to pay for college without access to financial aid, the film makes clear the very real and tangible ways in which immigration policy affects the lives of individuals and communities.

At the same time, the film also grapples with the larger structural and systemic issues that underlie the immigration crisis. It features interviews with lawmakers and policy experts discussing the history of immigration policy in the United States and the ways in which discriminatory policies and practices have created and perpetuated the current situation. The film also highlights the role of corporations and the economic forces that drive both immigration and anti-immigrant sentiment.

Throughout the film, there is a palpable sense of urgency and frustration that highlights the urgency of the issue. The film does not shy away from the violence and brutality that immigrants face, from the dangers of the border crossing itself to the violence and abuse that can occur in detention centers and workplaces. At the same time, the film highlights the resilience and determination of undocumented immigrants, who continue to fight for their rights and dignity despite incredible odds.

Overall, Wetback: The Undocumented Documentary from 2005 is a powerful and thought-provoking film that sheds light on one of the most pressing issues of our time. By putting a human face on the immigration crisis and exploring the larger social and political structures that perpetuate it, the film offers a compelling call to action for viewers to get involved and demand change. Whether you are an immigrant yourself, a concerned citizen, or just someone looking to learn more about this critical issue, this film is well worth watching.