Crossing Arizona: Where do you draw the line? 2006
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by Dan DeVivo & Laurie MacMillan
Directed by Joseph Mathew & Dan DeVivo
DVD, color, 77 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Immigration, Human Rights, Ethics, Law, American Studies, Latin American Studies, Political Science, Sociology
Date Entered: 11/08/2007
Reviewed by James G. Rhoades, Jr., Florida State University LibrariesThis documentary masterfully portrays the humanitarian, ethical, and legal concerns surrounding Latin American immigrants who illegally enter the United States through the Arizona desert. The film illustrates both the associated dangers of such crossings and the subsequent impact felt by those living along the Mexican border.
Filmmakers Joseph Mathew and Dan DeVivo provide an extraordinarily riveting glimpse into the divergent views and actions of concerned American citizens facing an increasing flow of illegal immigrants. The film presents a passionate portrait from various angles, while remaining neutral, as it highlights the opinions of humanitarians, U.S. Border Patrol, Arizona border residents, and the Minuteman movement. The film’s value is clearly demonstrated by its various film festival awards, which recognize the filmmakers’ attempts to provide clarity to the ever present dilemma of illegal immigration. This documentary is highly recommended to all colleges and universities, as it is both timely and possesses wide utility. Those teaching political science, human rights, ethics, or sociology will find the film of particular interest.