Paris Burning

Synopsis

In June 2008, Paris is a city divided, facing significant tensions between police, immigrants, and ethnic minorities in its deprived ghettos. David Brill investigates the social and racial fault lines that have led to riots erupting in these areas. The residents of Paris' outer-suburb ghettos express their anger and disillusionment towards a government they perceive as indifferent, with unemployment rates soaring to 40%. The legacy of Nicolas Sarkozy, who infamously labeled these residents as 'scum' in 2005, has turned him into a figure of hatred among the community. The atmosphere is charged with suspicion towards police, further exacerbating the already strained relations in the city.