The Fire This Time

I saw this film once, maybe around 1998 or so, and was totally blown away by its straightforward accounting of the history of African Americans in Los Angeles from early days to present, using the touchstones following the "Watts Riot" or Civil Insurrection and then especially the Riots or Civil Insurrection after the first "innocent" verdict on the police who beat Rodney King, almost to death. The amazing thing, among others, is its clear description of the manipulation of racism against the African American community often started for strictly financial motives of political power (echoed powerfully today, in my view of course), by Trump rising to power by focusing racism to fit his agenda, then use his positions of power, well before his incomprehensible presidency, to fill his own coffer with money redirected from others). ANYWAY, it's an invaluable resource, and really wish it was available. I think i saw very very low resolution, as if filmed off a television screen, versions of it on you tube, but would love for the film to be made public. I can't even say, my memory is totally accurate as to the film, and it's been so long since I've seen it. That's a tragedy of it not being, currently, accessible, and the age of my memory. I'll tell you one thing, I saw it, and never forgot it.

The rioting after the Rodney King decision in 1992 is the centerpiece for this documentary, but the detailed history that the film-makers have researched is what makes this film very interesting and informative.

This film is the first I've seen that probes the roots of the riots from the '60s, the formation of the Black Panther Party (and its subsequent infiltration by the FBI) to the violence of the Bloods and Crips.

Interviewing several people from all walks of life is the core of this documentary. Plus, it gives quite intriguing (and believable) analysis of why we can't all "just get along" -- because the powers-that-be don't want working people to unite.

A very worthwhile flick.

My rating: 8

I thought this was a great documentary film. It discusses the positive Black Panther activities never discussed in mainstream media. Interviewing Black Panter Bunchie Carter's mother about her son's involvement in the Black Panther party and his alleged demise a the hands of US Organization was brilliant. The film could have talked a bit more about the divisions within the party - specifically the LA - Oakland rift. It is directly related to how US was started. I came in on the middle of the film showing on TVOne, so I missed the fist 45 minutes. The clip of Malcom X discussing the need to shift to a "human rights movement" was incredibly powerful and it bears a message for all to hear. Race is a social construct, developed to keep people divided - there is only one race - the human race. If we can put our divisions aside, we could transform this country. I liked that the film showed real people - gang members, former gang members, mothers, fathers, community activists like Amde Hamilton, Dr. Smith, long time doctor at King-Drew Hospital. Does anyone know where I can purchase a copy?