Watch Through The Lens - The Dream America Tour

Through The Lens - The Dream America Tour is a thought-provoking and inspiring documentary that follows the journey of a group of young artists and musicians who embark on a tour across America to explore the country's cultural diversity and express their own artistic talents. The film is directed by Maria-Elena Poblacion Pineda, who also participates in the tour as one of the featured artists.

The film opens with the group's departure from Los Angeles on a brightly decorated school bus, which serves as their primary mode of transportation throughout the tour. Accompanying Pineda on the tour are Tutu Sweeney and Te'Amir Sweeney, brothers who are both musicians, and John Moraes, an artist and photographer. As they travel from city to city, the group engages with local communities and showcases their art and music in a series of public performances and events.

One of the main themes of the film is the exploration of cultural identity and the ways in which different communities express themselves through art and music. Through their interactions with people from diverse backgrounds, the group learns about the cultural traditions and experiences of different communities, and also shares their own perspectives through their art. The film features a range of musical performances, from hip-hop and jazz to folk and blues, as well as displays of visual art, including murals and installations.

Another notable aspect of the film is its focus on social justice and activism. The group's journey takes them to communities that have been impacted by issues such as poverty, gentrification, and racial inequality, and they use their art and music as a means of raising awareness and promoting change. In one poignant moment, the group visits a community that has been affected by police brutality, and they collaborate with local activists to create a mural that memorializes the victims of police violence.

Throughout the film, Pineda creates a compelling narrative by weaving together footage of the group's performances with interviews and reflections from the artists themselves. The film also features commentary from critics and scholars who contextualize the group's work within the broader history of art and music in America.

Overall, Through The Lens - The Dream America Tour is a powerful and uplifting documentary that showcases the ways in which art and music can bring people together and inspire social change. It is a testament to the creativity and resilience of young artists who are using their talents to make a difference in the world.