Watch The Whole Gritty City

The Whole Gritty City is a 2013 documentary film that takes a deep look at the struggles and spirit of New Orleans' young musicians within the confines of a high school marching band. The film is directed by Richard Barber and Andre Lambertson, and features the real-life stories of Bruce Davenport Jr., Kirk Dugar Jr., and Brandon Franklin, who are talented young musicians that are on the path to becoming successful performers.

The Whole Gritty City is set in New Orleans, Louisiana, which is known worldwide for its rich musical heritage. The beauty, resilience, and ingrained passion that the city's residents have can be seen throughout the film, as it tries to capture the essence of a city that is rich in tradition and a musical mecca. The film showcases the lives of students who are part of the marching bands from three high schools in New Orleans - O. Perry Walker, St. Augustine, and L.E. Rabouin - who are preparing for Mardi Gras.

The documentary gives us an unflinching look at the lives of these young musicians and the struggles they face living in poor neighborhoods stricken by poverty and violence. It presents the everyday reality of living in the hood, and how the marching band provides hope and a comforting sense of belonging for many of the band's students.

Through the eyes of its young musicians, the film explores the deep-rooted connections between music and community in New Orleans. It delves into the influence of the Mardi Gras carnival, which has been celebrated for more than 150 years, and the ways that the city's history and rituals are reflected in the music. The film portrays the intergenerational bonds and the legacies passed on through music that can help shape one's life.

The three high schools featured in the film have an incredible tradition of excellence in marching band competitions. The students are taught not only music but also and more importantly, life skills like teamwork, discipline, and persistence. They learn how to work together despite the hardships, through steady rehearsals, and long hours of practice. The film portrays the value of the marching band to the students in a way that is emotive yet never simplistic.

The Whole Gritty City also shows the impact of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated many of the New Orleans neighborhoods in 2005. The struggles of the city are visible through the eyes of the marching band directors, alumni, and family members. The filmmakers try to show how the band helped the community at large to sustain its will and tenacity, even through the toughest times.

Bruce Davenport Jr. is the central figure of the film, and his story is followed throughout. He is a talented artist and trumpet player that dreams of a future in music. He is faced with everyday struggles like poverty, violence, and living with a single parent, all while trying to pursue excellence in his art. His story put a human face to the challenges that many students of color in America face when preparing to pursue their dreams. His hard work and dedication to his craft even in the face of adversity set an example for anyone who has ever had to overcome obstacles to reach a goal.

The Whole Gritty City is an emotional and moving documentary that skillfully portrays the struggles and triumphs of young men and women in the city of New Orleans. The film highlights the importance of art in people's lives, and how music in particular can help create a sense of belonging and hope, even in challenging times. The Whole Gritty City celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, and its ability to persevere in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This movie is a must-watch for music-lovers, those interested in the diversity of American culture, and those who relish a good story of resilience and triumph that is rooted in real life.

The Whole Gritty City is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.6.