Watch Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982-1992

Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982-1992 is a documentary film directed by John Ridley which takes us through the events that led to the 1992 Los Angeles riots. The film starts in 1982 and provides an in-depth look into the social challenges faced by the residents of Los Angeles during this period. The documentary interviews various witnesses and survivors of the events, including individuals involved in the police force, victims of police brutality, community leaders, and activists. The film examines the build-up of tension and frustration in the African American community in Los Angeles, which had been simmering for years due to systematic oppression, discrimination, and corruption.

The documentary provides a comprehensive overview of the complex factors that led to the riots. It takes a deep dive into the history of the Los Angeles police department, focusing on the formation of the Community Resource Against Street Hoodlums (CRASH) unit, which was tasked with combating gang violence in the city.

The film scrutinizes the impact of the "War on Drugs" declared by the US government in the 1980s on inner-city communities, particularly African Americans. It also delves into the city's political climate during this period, highlighting the schism that existed between Mayor Tom Bradley and the LAPD Chief Daryl Gates.

Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982-1992 doesn't shy away from the violent events that occurred during the riots. The documentary includes interviews with people who witnessed the chaos in the city during this period, including the looting, burning of buildings, and killing of innocent people.

One of the most compelling aspects of this documentary is its ability to provide a balanced perspective on the events. It doesn't portray the riots as a senseless act of violence but rather as a result of decades of social, economic, and political disparities.

As the documentary progresses, the film provides an in-depth analysis of the court proceedings and the verdicts of the officers involved in the beating of Rodney King, a key event that acted as a catalyst for the riots. The documentary looks at how the verdicts outraged the African American community in Los Angeles, resulting in the riots that left over 50 people dead, thousands injured, and property worth hundreds of millions destroyed.

Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982-1992 is not just a retelling of past events, but a call to action. The documentary highlights the pressing need to address systemic racism and inequality, improve police-community relations, and provides a platform for voices that have been silenced for too long.

Overall, Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982-1992 is a powerful, thought-provoking, and an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding the causes and consequences of the LA riots. It gives insight into the experience of the residents of Los Angeles and showcases how these events continue to resonate in the world today.

Let It Fall: Los Angeles 1982-1992 is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 24 minutes.