Can You Dig This

Can You Dig This is an inspiring 2015 documentary that explores the urban gardening movement in one of the most unlikely places: South Central Los Angeles, one of the city's roughest neighborhoods. The film centers on the efforts of Ron Finley, a fashion designer turned activist who transforms unused urban spaces into vibrant community gardens. Directed by Delila Vallot, the film presents an up-close view into the lives and work of those targeted by systemic poverty, violence, and food insecurity.

The movie begins with a stark examination of South Central LA, a neighborhood riddled with crime, drugs, and economic hardships. Amid this bleak landscape, the film introduces us to Ron Finley, a passionate gardener who is often referred to as a "gangsta gardener". With the conviction that urban agriculture can rehabilitate communities, he convinces residents to turn their unused plots of land into lush, food-producing gardens.

The film's standout moments come from the intimate portraits of residents working on their garden plots. Vallot documents the personal struggles and triumphs of these unlikely gardeners, providing inspiring stories of transformation and empowerment. From Finley's urban "food forest" to a health-conscious mother growing vegetables for her children, from a former convex struggling to reintegrate into society, to a young teen looking for a refuge from prevalent gang culture, the film weaves these diverse narratives together, showcasing their individual growth parallel to the plants they are cultivating.

The gardening is presented as a form of activism, a tool for social change, and a departure from the pervasive fast-food culture in these neighborhoods. For many, these gardens become spaces of sanctuary and hope in an otherwise harsh urban setting.

Director Delila Vallot paints an intimate, hopeful picture of life in one of the country's most notorious neighborhoods where everything grows but opportunities. She carefully juxtaposes the stark realities of South Central's streets with the lush, verdant spaces Finley and his fellow gardeners have created. Their work, Vallot suggests, is not only about growing food, but about cultivating community, purpose, and hope.

One of the major highlights of the film is Ron Finley himself, whose charismatic personality and steadfast commitment to his community shine through. His mantra that "growing your own food is like printing your own money” is a theme that reverberates throughout the film. His belief that innovation can grow from the ground up resonates with many of the individuals highlighted in the film and it encourages viewers to re-evaluate their own relationship to food and community.

Can You Dig This also draws attention to the food desert phenomenon, where access to fresh, nutritious food in impoverished neighborhoods is scarce. Through gardening, Vallley makes a compelling argument that the residents of these neighborhoods can combat this issue and claim their wellness by producing their own vegetables and fresh produce.

This isn't your typical eco-documentary. While it does promote the necessary dialogue around sustainable living and food security, the film looks beyond those imperative themes into the human condition and resilience in the face of adversity. It hones in on the pursuit of happiness and belonging, showcasing how a simple, humble act like gardening can manifest into a social movement for self-betterment and positive change in the surroundings.

Can You Dig This is a poignant and timely documentary that shines a light on an underrepresented neighborhood and its residents' invigorating fight against food inequality. It encourages viewers to see the transformative power of gardening and paints a stirring portrait of a community digging their way to a healthier, more positive and connected way of life. Ron Finley’s Can You Dig This stands as a testament to the power of community, growth, and the human spirit.