Urban Roots 2011
Distributed by Collective Eye Films, 1315 SE 20th Ave. #3, Portland OR 97214; 971-236-2056
Produced by Leila Conners & Matthew Schmid
Directed by Mark Macinnis
DVD, color, 93 min.
Middle School - General Adult
Urban Planning, Sociology, Ecology, Gardening, Crime, Economics
Date Entered: 12/11/2018
Reviewed by Andrew Koval, MSLSUrban Roots features Detroit, Michigan as a potential epicenter of a burgeoning agricultural economy. The film inlays the economic history of Detroit, especially the downturn of the city’s motor industry. And in an attempt to reinvigorate this post-industrial city economy, communities are adopting agriculture as a means to economic prosperity. Engaging personalities, rhythm and blues music and inner-city farming converge to provide an engrossing cinematic experience.
The variety of agricultural activities occurring around the sprawling city of Detroit are diverse. Concepts such as Food Justice, Party Stores and Food Deserts are expounded. Challenges with local government, bureaucracy and zoning legalities are given equal weight. Discussion is furthered with addressing the social stigma of farming and slavery among the African American community. Viewers will be enriched from these novel agricultural concepts and issues.
Similar in topic to Brooklyn Farmer, Urban Roots keenly delves into the triumphs and realities of urban farming. Audiences will be educated and entertained. Academic and school libraries who support students studying agriculture, city planning and economics are well served to include this piece.