Better This World 2011
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Katie Galloway, Kelly Duana De La Vega, and Mike Nicholson
Directed by Katie Galloway and Kelly Duana De La Vega
DVD, color, 89 min.
Sr. High - General Adult
National Security, Ethics, Public Safety, Criminal Justice, Social Justice
Date Entered: 01/31/2012
ALA Notable: ala.gif
Reviewed by Katherine Bertel, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
Better this World tells the story of two childhood friends from Midland, Texas arrested on terrorist charges following the 2008 Republican National Convention. The two young anti-war activists, David McKay and Bradley Crowder, were looking to change the world. They were not sure how bring about change until they meet an older militant leftist, Brandon Darby. Under his influence, the two are lead to more serious actions. Unfortunately, Darby turned out to be an FBI informant. Accused of domestic terrorism for possession of Molotov cocktails, the film takes a close look at the post-9/11 paranoia and its impact on civil liberties.
At times, the documentary feels more like a thriller with re-enactments, prearranged scenes, interviews, surveillance footage, and video recorded at the convention and protest. The directors have a sympathetic view of Crowder and McKay, but interviews reveal details that are both objective and thought provoking. This film could easily serve as a case study on the ethics of current policies and practices used to ensure our safety in any social justice, political science, or ethics course.
Awards:
- Best Documentary Feature, 2011 Sarasota Film Festival
- Best Documentary Feature, 2011 San Francisco International Film Festival
- Audience Award, 2011 DocuWest Film Festival