Watch Violence and Vandalism

A multiracial group of teens break into their school at night, trashing it and setting a fire. Why don't they "play by the rules?" Do they vandalize just for kicks or to express a sense frustration at their run-down, under-funded school's inability to guide them toward a better future? This vintage short seems to be specifically aimed at pouring balm on the grievances of African American and other inner city students during an era of high racial and political tensions. "Irresponsible delinquents" who vandalize their schools only pay the price in disillusionment from adults who nix spending further tax dollars on education (along with the resentments of fellow students who feel that their chances at betterment have been disrupted). The basic message offered by film/television star host Hugh O'Brien and a bearded hipster sociologist is, "cool it, kids!" - Dennis Harvey