Independent Lens Season 16 Episode 6 Rich Hill

"Independent Lens" season 16 episode 6 takes a deep dive into the poverty-stricken lives of families in a small Missouri town, through the eyes of three teenage boys, Andrew, Harley, and Appachey. Named after the town they call home, "Rich Hill" follows the boys as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence while dealing with issues such as absent parents, financial strain, and social isolation.

The episode brings to light the harsh realities of living in rural America, where opportunity is scarce and the future seems hopeless. Andrew, the most upbeat of the three, dreams of becoming a YouTube sensation with his camera, despite his family's struggle to make ends meet. Harley, on the other hand, has a more cynical outlook on life, often getting into trouble with the law and struggling with anger management issues. Appachey, the most sensitive of the boys, deals with the pain of being separated from his mother, who is behind bars for drug-related charges.

Through their intertwined stories, "Rich Hill" sheds light on the difficulties of growing up in poverty and the impact it has on young people. The episode highlights the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity, as the boys try to maintain their optimism amidst their difficult circumstances.

The documentary also touches on larger societal issues such as the growing income inequality gap, lack of access to education, and the impact of the criminal justice system on impoverished families. The film challenges viewers to confront their assumptions about poverty, particularly in rural America, and to consider the ways in which we can work towards a more equitable society.

Overall, "Independent Lens" season 16 episode 6 "Rich Hill" is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of poverty in rural America. Through the stories of three teenage boys, the episode exposes the often-overlooked struggles of those living on the margins and offers a call to action for those seeking to address issues of poverty and inequality in our society.