The Fight In The Fields
The Fight In The Fields

Movie spotlight

The Fight In The Fields

1997
Movie
120 min
English

This documentary traces the history of the United Farmworkers Union and the life of its founder, Cesar Chavez, from his birth in Arizona, his education into organizing and non-violence, his formation of the union, to his death in 1993. It includes newsreel footage of the Delano grape boycott, Senate hearings conducted by Robert F. Kennedy, Chavez's fasts, encounters with growers and rival Teamsters. Recent interviews with Chavez family members, Ethyl Kennedy, Roger Cardinal Mahony, Governor Jerry Brown, and current and past UFW leaders round out the history and assessment of Chavez and the Union.

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Director: Ellen Spiro, David redmonGenres: Documentary

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the struggle of farmworkers in California's Central Valley, focusing on the United Farm Workers (UFW) and their fight for better wages and working conditions. It highlights the leadership of Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta and the powerful organizing efforts that led to significant changes in labor rights. The film delves into the challenges and triumphs of this crucial period in American labor history.

Critical Reception

The film was widely praised for its powerful storytelling and its essential look at a pivotal moment in American labor history. Critics lauded its historical significance and its presentation of the farmworkers' struggle for dignity and justice.

What Reviewers Say

  • A vital historical document of the farmworker movement.

  • Powerfully directed and deeply moving.

  • Essential viewing for understanding labor rights in America.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's impact in educating viewers about the historical significance of the farmworker movement and the persistent fight for labor rights. Many found it inspiring and informative.

Awards & Accolades

Screened at numerous film festivals, including the Sundance Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film was made over a period of several years, with directors Ellen Spiro and David Redmon gaining intimate access to the farmworkers and their leaders.

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