POV Season 18 Episode 4 Street Fight

In the fourth episode of POV's 18th season, viewers are taken to the political battlegrounds of Newark, New Jersey. The episode, titled "Street Fight," follows the mayoral campaign of young, charismatic Cory Booker as he takes on incumbent Sharpe James in a race that will make headlines across the country.

Filmmaker Marshall Curry captures both sides of the contentious battle, giving viewers an inside look at the high-stakes world of political campaigns in one of America's toughest cities. From the opening scene, it's clear that this is not going to be a typical political race; both candidates are emerging from vastly different backgrounds and are competing for a city that has seen its fair share of struggles.

At the center of the story is Booker, a bright and optimistic speaker with a passion for public service. He is backed by a diverse coalition of activists, grassroots organizers, and young people who see him as a breath of fresh air in an otherwise stagnant political environment. James, on the other hand, has been in power for over two decades and is known for his tough tactics and hard-nosed leadership style.

As Curry's cameras follow the candidates on the campaign trail, viewers get a sense of the intense pressure and scrutiny that comes with running for office in Newark. We see Booker's supporters working tirelessly to get him elected, knocking on doors, making phone calls, and organizing rallies. Meanwhile, James fights back with a mix of hard-edged campaigning and personal attacks on his opponent's record and character.

One of the most striking aspects of "Street Fight" is the way that it captures the energy and passion of the grassroots activists who are working to bring about change in Newark. These are people who are often overlooked by traditional campaigns, but who play an essential role in shaping the political landscape of their city. Watching them in action is both inspiring and humbling, and reminds viewers of the power of community organizing to effect real change.

As the election draws near, tensions rise and the campaign begins to take on a darker tone. There are accusations of voter fraud, dirty tricks, and even physical violence, as both sides fight tooth and nail to win the election. Through it all, Curry's camera stays focused on the candidates and their supporters, capturing the intensity of the race and the complexities of the issues at stake.

Ultimately, "Street Fight" is a powerful and compelling documentary that offers a deep and nuanced look at the rough and tumble world of American politics. With its vivid characters and compelling narrative, it is a must-see for anyone interested in the power of community organizing, the challenges facing urban America, and the art of the political campaign.