POV Season 18 Episode 6 The Brooklyn Connection
- July 19, 2005
The POV season 18 episode 6 titled "The Brooklyn Connection" is a documentary film by Kassandra Voyagis that explores the life of an aspiring filmmaker, William Kunstler, who through his activism, becomes a champion of civil rights causes.
William Kunstler was a prolific and controversial lawyer who defended clients who were unpopular and appeared to be guilty, earning him many enemies. Despite the backlash, he was unafraid to speak out against the government and legal system when he saw injustice.
The episode focuses on Kunstler's involvement in a case that inspired him to fight for justice. In 1988, a group of black teenagers were accused of murder in Brooklyn, and despite a lack of evidence, five of them were convicted. Kunstler was asked to take on their case by one of the boys' mothers, and he accepted.
The episode also explores how Kunstler's activism was intertwined with his successful career as a filmmaker. Kunstler saw filmmaking as a tool for social change, and he used his artistic talent to create films that exposed social issues and called for action.
"The Brooklyn Connection" is a tribute to William Kunstler's life, his activism, and his art. Through interviews with friends, family, and colleagues, viewers are given a glimpse of Kunstler's character, his beliefs, and the impact he had on the world.
The episode is filmed in a very personal style, focusing on Kunstler's character and values. It does not shy away from the controversial nature of his work, and it provides a platform for him to be seen in a different light than many have perceived him.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to vintage footage showing Kunstler speaking out on social issues and protesting against injustices. The archival footage is woven in with interviews with Kunstler's children, friends, colleagues, and other influential figures who worked alongside Kunstler to effect social change.
"The Brooklyn Connection" is both a reminder of the power of activism and a recognition of an iconoclastic figure who was ahead of his time. In the world in which we live today, Kunstler's fight for justice should serve as a model for many of us who are looking for ways to make a positive impact on society.