Watch Crossing Arizona

Crossing Arizona is a 2006 documentary film that examines the complex and controversial issue of illegal immigration along the U.S.-Mexico border. The film takes an in-depth look at the various factors driving migration from Mexico into the United States and the impact that this migration has on both countries. The film was directed by Joseph Mathew and produced by Dan DeVivo and Steve Lerner. Through interviews with politicians, activists, and border patrol agents, as well as with migrants themselves, the film provides a nuanced view of a highly polarizing issue. It explores the motivations behind why people choose to risk their lives crossing the border, as well as the challenges they face once they arrive in the United States.

The documentary is organized around several different themes, each of which offers a unique perspective on the issue of immigration. One of the main themes explored in the film is the political debate over immigration reform. Various politicians are shown discussing immigration policy and the pros and cons of a more restrictive approach versus a more compassionate one.

Another important theme in Crossing Arizona is the human toll that illegal immigration takes on those who attempt it. Through interviews with migrants and their families, the film offers a sobering look at the violence and hardship that often accompany the journey north. We learn about the desperation that motivates people to take such risks, as well as the traumas that result from surviving a perilous journey.

The film also explores some of the broader economic and social contexts that underlie the immigration issue. We learn about the economic inequalities between the United States and Mexico, as well as the role that trade policies and globalization have played in exacerbating those inequalities. We also learn about the cultural dynamics between the two countries and the often fraught relationship that exists between Mexican and American citizens.

One of the most striking things about Crossing Arizona is the wide range of perspectives it presents on the issue of immigration. Throughout the film, the viewer is given a sense of the complexity of the issue and the multitude of factors that contribute to it. We see the various stakeholders in the debate, from politicians to activists to border patrol agents, and we hear their differing opinions on how best to address the challenges of illegal immigration.

Despite the film's informative and well-rounded approach to the issue, it is clear that the filmmakers have a point of view that they are advocating for. Throughout the film, there is a clear message that the current U.S. policy towards immigration is ineffective and that more compassionate and equitable solutions are needed. The film suggests that the root causes of migration must be addressed in order to reduce the flow of migrants crossing the border, and that more humane treatment of those who do cross is necessary.

Overall, Crossing Arizona is a well-produced and informative documentary that sheds light on an issue that continues to be highly relevant and controversial in modern American politics. Through a nuanced exploration of the various factors that contribute to illegal immigration, the film offers a compelling case for a more compassionate and effective approach to this complex problem.

Crossing Arizona is a 2006 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.