Movie spotlight
There Are No Children Here
The devastating story of brothers Lafayette and Pharoah Rivers, children of the Chicago ghetto, is powerfully told here by a Wall Street Journal reporter who first met the boys in 1985 when they were 10 and 7, respectively. Their family includes a mother, a frequently absent father, an older brother, and younger triplets. We witness the horrors of growing up in an ill-maintained housing project tyrannized by drug gangs and where murders and shootings frequently occur.
Insights
Plot Summary
This powerful documentary offers an unflinching look at the lives of two young brothers growing up in the Robert Taylor Homes housing project in Chicago during the late 1980s. It chronicles their daily struggles with poverty, violence, and the systemic issues that trap them in a cycle of despair. The film focuses on their hopes, dreams, and resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. It serves as a stark portrayal of the impact of urban poverty on children.
Critical Reception
"There Are No Children Here" was widely acclaimed by critics for its raw honesty and compassionate portrayal of its subjects. It was praised for bringing attention to the dire conditions faced by children in inner-city public housing, highlighting the systemic failures contributing to their plight. The documentary was recognized for its significant social impact and its ability to humanize a marginalized community.
What Reviewers Say
A deeply moving and important look at the harsh realities of inner-city life for children.
Praised for its unflinching honesty and the compelling stories of its young subjects.
Recognized as a significant documentary for raising awareness about social issues.
Google audience: Audience reception for this documentary is difficult to quantify through standard review aggregators, but it is generally regarded as a powerful and impactful film that sheds light on critical social issues affecting children in urban environments.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for an IDA Award for Best Feature Documentary.
Fun Fact
The documentary is based on the 1987 book of the same name by journalist Alex Kotlowitz, which spent over a year on The New York Times bestseller list.
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