WRITING CULTURE 2012: Film, Food & Beyond

After Detroit lost half of its manufacturing jobs to outsourcing, the city lost half of its residents. The documentary Destropia is beautifully filmed scenes of the devastating decay.

Directors and residents, Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady show what is left through the eyes of those who remain. In 1930 Detroit was the fastest growing city in America. The middle-class prospered in Detroit, as did the rest of the America. As we follow the engaging and somehow hopeful residents they boast of the cities success and fear for their future, as well as the future of the country.
Building are destroyed, more jobs are lost. Demolition and scrap recycling are the only growth opportunities in town. The cast are emotional and entertaining. A small restaurant owner (Tommy Stevens) holds on to his business hoping the plant will hire back workers, and the proud Cadillac driving union boss (George McGregor) fights to save the jobs of the few workers left behind in the world of globalization. A young blogger (Crystal Starr) who tries to see her future in Detroit while reveling in the past. A Young (possibly foolish) couple looking for a cheap place to create offers minimal hope to offset the dismal decline.
Many viewers come into this film aware of Detroit issues, but seeing them up close and personal is almost painful to watch. The frustration of the residents and even the Mayor is contagious. The overarching message is; let this city be a warning and your city will be next. This film will leave you aware, but with more fear than hope. There are no easy answers in Detropia and none are offered.