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 . . .