Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Brick City (2009)

Brick City is like a real-life KSG case. . .

Continuing the theme of film and public policy, I’d like to introduce you to the wonderment (yes, I just used that word) of Cory Booker and his transformation of Newark, NJ. Brick City captures the daily drama of a community striving to become a better, safer, stronger place to live. The Sundance Channel describes the docu-drama as a sort of expose on the soci-economic, political and crime life of one of the fastest growing cities in New England. Booker, is the third African American to preside as mayor over the city, and brings a wealth of non-profit and legal experience to the position. After losing one of the most highly contested mayor elections, Booker ran again in 2006 and won.

I’d describe the docu-drama as a soft-core version of HBO’s The Wire. For policy “wonks,” the reality docu-drama profiles the relationship between political strategists, the police department, communications, and the citizens of Newark. While the film really centers on the city’s historical decreases in the violent crime rate, the piece looks at Booker’s ability to bring diverse groups of people together to improve the lives of all Newark residents.

The complete series is now available on Instant Netflix . . .

Film and Public Policy

In light of a new film series initiative at George Mason's School of Public Policy as well as Sanford's recent screenings of Countdown to Zero, I thought I would share some exciting politically-related films and documentaries premiering in 2010.

"Inside Job"

Inside Job is the first film to provide a comprehensive analysis of the global financial crisis of 2008, which eventually lead to the worst recession since the 1930s.

"Gerrymandering"

This documentary chronicles how gerrymandering impacts the U.S. electoral landscape. Most people fail to realize the importance of power at the local level. Gerrymandering reminds us that redistricting (every 10 years) enables politicians and political parties to sustain their power.

"Waiting for Superman"

Similar to the documentary, “The Lottery,” this film is a potential academy award nominee. The documentary profiles the charter school system in America, specifically following several students and their experience with educational lotteries.

"Freakonomics"

Mirrors the book Freakonomics . . . which is about everything!

"Fair Game"

Details the Valerie Plame CIA scandal in which the CIA agent was publically ousted. You can decide who’s responsible.

“The Tillman Story”

This film premiered at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. The film looks back at the life of a football star who left the NFL to join the U.S. military.

"Casino Jack and the United States of Money"

Now playing on Instant Netflix, this film chronicles Jack Abramoff and the corruption scandal surrounding the former DC lobbyist.