TV SERIES REVIEW
Dallas, 2019
 -     

Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2025
Runtime: 5 x 54m episodes 
Director(s): Darius Clark Monroe
Where To Watch: the series will air on PBS’s INDEPENDENT LENS on January 3 and 4, 2025, at 10 p.m. (check local listings). The film will be available to stream on the PBS app

RAVING REVIEW: DALLAS, 2019, directed by Darius Clark Monroe, brings to life a city transforming just as a global pandemic looms around the corner. With a filmmaker's eye for drama and a journalist's attention to detail, Monroe captures the highs and lows of Dallas' inhabitants. This series paints a picture of urban resilience through the lens of civic leaders and everyday citizens.

Navigating an unsure period in Dallas's history, the series gives a voice to those at the forefront of managing crises and reforms. City Manager T.C. Broadnax and other key figures are spotlighted as they tackle the dual challenges of natural disasters and deep-seated social inequalities. Each episode unpacks the complexity of the urban landscape, revealing a city both struggling and striving under pressure.

DALLAS, 2019 shines when it explores the personal impact of these public challenges. From a young graduate stepping into adulthood to seasoned officials like a superintendent and sheriff, the series delves into the often-overlooked human elements of civic duty. Monroe’s ability to mix these personal journeys with broader issues lends the series an authenticity that resonates with viewers.

In its third episode, the series deepens its exploration of the lives of Dallas residents. The story of a transgender woman and a long-serving court commissioner is particularly compelling. The series provides a platform for stories that challenge and expand our understanding of identity and community in a contemporary setting.

As the series progresses, it tackles justice and systemic reform issues. Audiences are given a front-row seat to the inner workings of the legal system, where a district attorney and a community judge strive for change. Their efforts, alongside the roles of bail bond agents and activists, weave a story of conflict and ambition.

The finale of DALLAS, 2019, captures the enduring spirit of Dallas through the personal stories of a medical examiner and a healthcare worker, among others. These vignettes highlight the collective contributions to the city’s culture and underscore the broader implications of individual efforts.

While DALLAS, 2019 covers a broad thematic expanse, it sometimes struggles to maintain depth across all aspects. A more focused approach might have allowed deeper engagement with its central themes. Despite this, the series leaves a lasting impact, marrying personal narratives with a broader discourse on resilience and responsibility.

Monroe’s insightful commentary throughout the series enriches the viewing experience, prompting reflection on civic engagement and accountability. His calls to action are woven into the narrative, challenging viewers to consider their roles within their communities and beyond.

When DALLAS, 2019, debuts on PBS’s INDEPENDENT LENS, it is poised to spark discussions on resilience and governance. This docuseries is a powerful reminder of storytelling's ability to illuminate the human spirit’s capacity to adapt and thrive. It offers a reflective look at the challenges and achievements of Dallas and, by extension, cities around the globe.

Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of SCRATCH MADE FILMS, CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING (CPB), ITVS INTERNATIONAL, PUBLIC BROADCASTING SERVICE (PBS)]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.