The Slow Hustle

The Slow Hustle is a compelling documentary from 2021 that illuminates a shocking tale of corruption and institutional failure in Baltimore. Directed by Sonja Sohn and co-produced by Brandon Kramer and Bryan Bello, the film spotlights a pivotal case of police corruption and adds a new tone to the existing narratives about urban decay and systemic failure in America.

The film spotlights three main figures - Umar Burley, a former convict who was wrongfully convicted in a case of police malfeasance, Jill Carter, a former Maryland state senator and human rights advocate, and Kevin Davis, the former Commissioner of the Baltimore Police Department.

The Slow Hustle threads its narrative around the city of Baltimore, known for its unique cultural vibrancy but also struggling with deep-seated issues of crime, corruption, and poverty. The film’s crux revolves around the infamous Gun Trace Task Force (GTTF) scandal in which a group of highly decorated Baltimore police officers were found guilty of robbery, extortion, and planting evidence, plunging the community into an abyss of doubt and mistrust towards the system.

Umar Burley, one of the central figures of the documentary, is presented as a victim of this sadly corrupt system. In 2010, he was given a 15-year sentence for a crash and subsequent death that occurred during a high-speed police chase. The investigation later revealed that the officers involved planted drugs in Burley's car to justify their action. Burley’s heart-wrenching story serves as a sobering reflection of the numerous lives affected by rampant corruption amidst the men in blue.

Rivaled in prominence only by Burley is Jill Carter, a fearless advocate for justice and a beacon of hope in these beleaguered spaces. Carter’s dedicated efforts to expose corruption, coupled with her diligence in pushing for reforms, make for a compelling narrative within the film. Her relentless pursuits for justice in an atmosphere so embedded in corruption are truly inspirational.

Kevin Davis, who served as the Baltimore Police Commissioner during the time of the GTTF scandal, too, plays a significant role in the narrative. The documentary sheds light on his tenure, his struggle with managing the crisis, and his attempts to rebuild the tarnished image of the police force.

The documentary doesn't solely focus on the prevalence of corruption and wrongful convictions. It also delves into the ripple effects of these systemic failures on the city's social fabric, effectively exploring the psychological, emotional, and economic impact on the community.

Sohn, known primarily for her acting roles in shows like ‘The Wire’, leverages her keen understanding of Baltimore & its socio-political landscape to craft an incisive and thought-provoking documentary. With a gripping narrative that wades through a controversial topic, it captivates its audience and incites a significant contemplation on societal ills and police corruption.

The Slow Hustle also impresses with its dignified storytelling and profound exploration of its characters. It effectively quantifies their struggles, achievements, and the enduring strengths that allow them to persist against the odds.

One of the standouts of the film is the strength of its narrative arc, which balances presenting in-depth details of the GTTF scandal while also maintaining an emotional connection with viewers. While the audience is led through an investigation full of shocking revelations, the film doesn't lose sight of the humans at the center of the story. It underscores the value and necessity of trust and accountability in law enforcement to make cities safer and more just.

In short, The Slow Rush offers a riveting, well-researched view into the heart of a city grappling with a disturbing blow to its faith in law enforcement. The film, while recounting a harrowing tale of corruption and unlawful arrests, also celebrates the resilience of individuals like Burley and Carter, whose stories inspire hope amidst difficult circumstances. Layered with nuanced insights, authentic narratives, and a compelling storyline, it is a must-watch for all documentary lovers and advocates of social justice, leaving one with powerful and pressing thoughts about the state of law enforcement and justice in the US today.