Riotsville, USA

This documentary unearths a forgotten chapter of American history, revealing how the U.S. Army staged elaborate training exercises in the 1960s and 70s. These exercises, simulating urban unrest and riots, were designed to prepare police forces and military personnel for civil disobedience. Through archival footage, the film exposes the uncanny parallels between these past simulations and the real-world events that followed, questioning the government's role in managing and escalating social unrest.

Riotsville, USA was generally well-received by critics for its timely and thought-provoking examination of the militarization of policing and its historical roots. Reviewers praised its archival research and its potent message, particularly in the current socio-political climate. The film was noted for its unsettling relevance and its ability to draw connections between past government actions and present-day issues of protest and police response.

• Praised for its incisive archival footage and potent historical context.

• Lauded for its timely exploration of police militarization and its roots.

• Noted for its unsettling relevance to contemporary social and political issues.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's use of archival footage and its clear, concise presentation of historical events. Many found the documentary to be eye-opening and relevant to current events, with viewers highlighting its effectiveness in demonstrating how historical events have shaped contemporary policing and protest.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival (2022).

The film utilizes extensive archival footage from the U.S. Army's own film units, showcasing how the military documented and promoted these 'riot control' exercises as necessary training for domestic unrest.