Title: Raised Up Westside
MPAA Rating: N/A
Director: Brett A. Schwartz
Starring: N/A
Runtime: 1 hr 26 min

What it is: The predominantly Black westside of Chicago is an area that faces racism, poverty, food inequality, and violence. In this documentary, the citizens of the Westside are shown trying to make a difference and make their community a better place to live despite the hardships they face. From giving ex-offenders a second chance by providing places to work, to establishing a Farmer’s market amidst a food desert, the documentary follows the various ventures by social activists and entrepreneurs to help the community.

What We Think: This documentary was an absolute winner. A fine gem from front to back. It expertly told me the story of what has been happening in the Westside of Chicago for the last few years and was fantastic about providing the information it was trying to convey. The hardships facing these neighborhoods such as mass incarceration, food deserts, and racial inequality are fierce opponents that these citizens have to face.  Because of this, the story of the inhabitants of Westside Chicago that are trying to make life in their neighborhood better is deeply moving and deserves to be shared. Each interview provided a real insight and one could tell this documentary was made from the heart. Everything about it felt real and genuine.  Hearing the stories of Darius Jones and other ex-offenders showed the grimy reality of life in that part of town and yet also inspired hope that anyone can turn their life around. Following the owner of Forty Acres, Liz Abunaw, and watching her Farmer’s Market grow amidst the 2020 pandemic is nothing short of inspiring. These are real people doing real good deeds to make the place they live a better home. It takes a village as they say, and you can tell that slowly but surely, they are changing their community for the better. 

From a technical aspect, this documentary should be praised as well. Each shot looked wonderfully framed and showed the beauty and grit of Chicago perfectly. The soundtrack, all provided by Chicago artists, is one of the best soundtracks I’ve ever heard for a documentary. On all points, this was a flawless documentary. 

Our Grade: A, I don’t have anything negative to say about this documentary. It does run on the longer side but that’s because it’s conveying so much important information. From beginning to end, this documentary captivated me. I would highly recommend this as a watch to anyone because its topic is poignant and important and the documentary is extremely well made. Well done to all the cast and crew that worked on this.