The Deep Roots of Urban Segregation

Read Time:4 Minute, 15 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Racist Trees
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 28m
Director(s): Sara Newens, Mina T. Son
Where To Watch: will debut on PBS’s INDEPENDENT LENS on January 22, 2024, at 10 p.m. (check local listings). The film will also be available to stream on the PBS App, or for more information, visit www.itvs.org

RAVING REVIEW: RACIST TREES offers an unexpected journey through the sun-drenched streets of Palm Springs, unveiling a hidden narrative of racial tension beneath its picturesque surface. Directors Sara Newens and Mina T. Son navigate the complex terrain of urban planning and its racial repercussions. It's an eye-opener that transforms the mundane into the meaningful, leading viewers down a path where every leaf and branch tells a story of segregation.

In Palm Springs, a city known for its charm and celebrity allure, RACIST TREES unveils a contrasting tale of racial divides hidden in plain sight. The film's central focus is the Crossley Tract, a primarily black neighborhood fighting against a line of tamarisk trees running along the back of their property line. These trees stand as living structures of a history of racial segregation, casting long shadows over the community they tower above.

The narrative mixes poignant interviews, stories of the past and present, and visual exploration, creating a mosaic of perspectives from residents, city officials, and stakeholders. This diverse range of voices adds depth and dimension to the film, making it a robust and engaging piece of storytelling. With its sharp cinematography, the documentary brings the audience face-to-face with the stark realities and challenges the Crossley Tract community faces.

A particularly intriguing subplot is the role of Trae Daniel, a white real estate agent who becomes a pivotal figure in the campaign to remove trees. His involvement raises questions about allyship's complexities and power dynamics within social justice movements. This aspect of the film adds a layer of intrigue, examining the multifaceted nature of advocacy and change. Just when you think you have him figured out, you don’t, offering a natural twist that I didn’t see coming.

RACIST TREES goes beyond the confines of Palm Springs, presenting a narrative that resonates worldwide. The film encourages viewers to consider how urban planning, often overlooked as a racial issue, can profoundly affect community dynamics. This broader perspective is crucial to the film's appeal, offering insights relevant to nationwide audiences. I won’t lie; I was blindsided by the injustices a row of trees could cause; this was a welcome and eye-opening experience.

Despite its serious subject matter, the documentary maintains a balance between the gravity of its theme and the inherent hope in its storytelling. At the same time, a symbolic victory in the film is portrayed as part of a larger, ongoing struggle for racial equality. This delicate balance between hope and realism is one of the film's strengths, offering a nuanced view of the challenges and triumphs in the fight against systemic racism.

The directors' approach to the subject matter is both compassionate and insightful. They don't just document a story; they immerse the audience in the lived experiences of those at the heart of this issue. Their ability to capture the human element within this broader social narrative sets RACIST TREES apart from other documentaries.

RACIST TREES is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that highlights an often-overlooked aspect of racial inequality in America. It is a powerful call to action, urging viewers to recognize and address the systemic issues that shape our communities. The film is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking as a tool for social change, offering a unique and necessary perspective on race and justice in America. With its engaging storytelling, insightful interviews, and the ability to provoke deep reflection, RACIST TREES is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding and challenging the societal structures that define us.

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[photo courtesy of INDEPENDENT LENS, ITVS, PBS]

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