“LA 92”, 2017
Director: Daniel Lindsay, T.J. Martin
This documentary pulls from a wealth of archival footage to construct a gripping, immersive narrative of the 1992 Los Angeles riots. The directors, Daniel Lindsay and T.J. Martin, present a raw, unfiltered examination of the events leading up to, during, and after the riots, letting the footage speak to the chaos, anger, and complexity of emotions that defined the period.
Starring: Henry Alfaro, Danny Bakewell, John D. Barnett, Michael Bostic, Tom Bradley, Theodore Briseno, Tom Brokaw, Edward Chang, Soon Ja Du, John Ferraro, Bart Bartholomew, Reginald Denny;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: documentary, crime, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 114 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,2;
More information about the film “LA 92” on the website imdb.com
“Rodney King”, 2017
Director: Spike Lee
Directed by Spike Lee, this film is a one-man show featuring Roger Guenveur Smith performing a powerful monologue that delves into the life and times of Rodney King, whose beating by police officers sparked the LA riots. The film blends storytelling and activism, offering insights into racial tensions in America.
Starring: Roger Guenveur Smith;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama;
Duration: 52 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,2;
More information about the film “Rodney King” on the website imdb.com
“Freedom Writers”, 2006
Director: Richard LaGravenese
While not exclusively about the LA riots, this drama, directed by Richard LaGravenese and starring Hilary Swank, delves into the aftermath of the riots and their impact on a racially diverse class in Long Beach, California. The story, based on a true story, focuses on how a teacher motivates her students to learn tolerance and pursue education beyond their immediate circumstances.
Starring: Hilary Swank, Scott Glenn, Imelda Staunton, Patrick Dempsey, April Hernandez Castillo, Mario, Robert Wisdom, John Benjamin Hickey, Kristin Herrera, Jacklyn Ngan;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, crime, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
More information about the film “Freedom Writers” on the website imdb.com
These films each offer a unique lens on the Los Angeles riots, providing a mixture of historical documentation and creative interpretation that can help viewers understand the complexity of the events and their lasting impact on American society.
In conclusion, films about the Los Angeles riots offer a profound, multifaceted exploration of one of the most tumultuous periods in recent American history. Through the lens of gifted filmmakers, these works navigate the complex tapestry of emotions, social injustice, and the quest for identity and understanding that emerged from the ashes of the riots. They not only serve as historical records but also as a means of initiating dialogue, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race, power, and the fabric of urban society. By capturing the essence of Los Angeles during this pivotal moment, these films contribute to a deeper comprehension of the events and their lasting impact, ensuring that the lessons learned are not forgotten but instead pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
