For those living near and familiar with the recent history of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, there are two seminal events that come to mind when thinking about MOVE, a black liberation, and a communal group. This includes the 1985 bombing of the MOVE home located on Osage Avenue by the Philadelphia Police Department. The other event occurred seven years earlier. In 1977, the Philadelphia Police had a court order for the members of MOVE to vacate the home they were living in because of complaints from neighbors. In response to this court order, the members of MOVE living in the home stated they would leave when their members were released from prison.
By 1978, this standoff between the Philadelphia Police Department and MOVE escalated into a shootout resulting in the death of a police officer. Nine MOVE members were arrested including eight months pregnant Debbie Africa who delivered her son Mike Africa Jr. while in prison. Shortly after his birth, Mike was sent to live with and be raised by his grandmother.
This documentary film examines how this event in 1978 impacted the mother/son relationship of Debbie Africa and Mike Africa Jr. While this film is short at 15 minutes, ample time to examine the complex issues of the mother/son relationship paused by a prison sentence, but too much time is spent documenting daily routines and not enough time actually attacking the underlying context of this relationship.
For those unfamiliar with MOVE and the events in 1978 and 1985, some additional context is needed so the audience fully understands the nature of this relationship within the larger societal context. A recent documentary 40 Years a Prisoner offers some additional context. For those already familiar with the history of MOVE in Philadelphia, this is an excellent supplemental source to gain some insight into those affiliated with this group.
This documentary utilized a raw filming style that worked well given the short running time. For public and academic libraries in the Philadelphia area and throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, this documentary film is an essential source given the importance of the two seminal events involving MOVE in Philadelphia history. For public and academic libraries outside of Southeastern Pennsylvania, this film is recommended as it offers some insight into the relationship of a mother and son who were separated while a mother was in prison and the impact this has on their relationship and family dynamics. Recommended
What kind of film collection would this title be suitable for?
This film is suitable for film collections that examine the impact of race, policing, and incarceration on families.
What academic subjects would this film be suitable for?
This film is suitable for film collections focused on family, race, and social issues.
What type of classroom would this documentary resource be suitable for?
This film is suitable for use in classrooms examining issues of race, incarceration, and policing and the impact this has on families. Given the short run time, this film is easily integrated into existing classes.