Film Lens
Revolution '67 is a documentary that examines the black riots of the 1960s, particularly focusing on the events in Newark, New Jersey. The film centers around the arrest of John Smith, a black taxi driver, in 1967, who was allegedly beaten and killed following a traffic violation. This incident sparked the Newark riots, which are portrayed as a significant reaction to systemic racial injustices and the growing influence of the Black Power Movement during that era.
Produced and directed by Marylou and Jerome Bongiorno, the film uses a combination of archival footage and interviews to present the social climate of the time. It is part of PBS's Point of View series, aiming to provide a platform for diverse perspectives on historical events. The documentary captures the shift from a philosophy of nonviolence to more militant expressions of black identity and resistance in urban America.
Why Watch
- •See Newark's response to John Smith's death.
- •Find out about the Black Power Movement's rise.
- •Meet key figures in the 1967 riots.
Did You Know
•John Smith was a black taxi driver arrested in Newark in 1967.
•The Newark riots were triggered by Smith's alleged beating and death.
•Race riots occurred in cities like Jersey City, Harlem, and Watts in the 1960s.
•Revolution '67 was produced and directed by Marylou and Jerome Bongiorno.
Perfect For
Civil rights historyUrban unrest1960s America