VDH Has a Conversation with Filmmaker Michael L. Pack
Oct 7, 2024
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Victor Davis Hanson hosts Michael Pack, a renowned documentary filmmaker known for his poignant storytelling, including a feature on Clarence Thomas. They dive into Pack's new series addressing overlooked narratives, especially focusing on the Crown Heights riots and the alarming resurgence of anti-Semitism. The discussion explores the complex dynamics between Black and Jewish communities, how political identities have shifted, and the challenges of narrating nuanced historical events in documentary format.
Michael Pack's documentary series aims to highlight ignored media narratives, starting with the overlooked Crown Heights riots of 1991.
The discussion emphasizes the resurgence of anti-Semitism in contemporary society, particularly its intersection with current racial politics and tensions.
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Michael Pack's New Documentary Project
Michael Pack has launched a series of short documentaries in partnership with the Wall Street Journal's opinion section to highlight stories that are often overlooked or misrepresented by mainstream media. His inaugural documentary, 'Get the Jew: The Crown Heights Riots Revisited,' focuses on the significant anti-Semitic race riot in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, in 1991. The film aims to shed light on the historical context, public responses, and the political implications surrounding that event. By exploring neglected narratives, Pack hopes to provide a platform for voices and events skewed by bias.
Analysis of the Crown Heights Riots
The documentary recounts the Crown Heights riots, sparked by a tragic accident involving a Jewish motorcade that resulted in the death of a young black boy. Over the course of three days, violence erupted, leading to the deaths of individuals and extensive property damage, highlighting deep-seated racial tensions. The film raises critical questions about the decision-making of local authorities during the riots and why proactive measures to contain the violence were not taken sooner. By revisiting this dark chapter, it prompts a discussion about systemic failures in addressing communal grievances and preventing violence.
The Broader Context of Anti-Semitism and Racial Dynamics
The discussion reveals troubling trends related to anti-Semitism, particularly as it intersects with racial politics in contemporary society. Notably, figures such as Al Sharpton, who played a significant role during the Crown Heights riots, have recently navigated a shift in their political narratives regarding race relations and Jewish communities. Pack expresses concern over the rise of anti-Semitic sentiments and how they manifest in current societal tensions, particularly on college campuses. The documentary concludes by examining the implications of these historical events for today's political climate and the ongoing struggle against prejudice.
Victor Davis Hanson interviews Michael Pack, documentary filmmaker, about his new documentary with WSJ Opinion Section — a new series to look at stories that have been overlooked by the mainstream media. His new series is "Get the Jew: the Crown Heights Riots Revisited" named for the 1991 riots.