When a City Falls

When a City Falls is a poignant and heartrending documentary from 2011, which chronicles the devastation and aftermath wrought by the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand. Directed by Gerard Smyth, the documentary not only examines the physical damage inflicted by the earthquakes but also emphasizes the emotional and psychological toll on the city’s inhabitants. Smyth’s filmmaking is not just about cataloging the disaster; it captures the indomitable spirit and resilience of the people of Christchurch.

The documentary begins with an eerie calm before the first earthquake hit in September 2010. It swiftly navigates through amateur video footage and news reports showing the city in a state of shock and disbelief. The powerful images of shaking buildings, bewildered faces and spreading destruction offer an unsettling glimpse into the catastrophic events. However, the real essence of the movie comes forth in its aftermath, where Show of Hands singer, Gerry Findlay's voiceover offers a haunting background score to the scenes of devastation.

The strength of When a City Falls stems from its intimate, ground-level perspective. Smyth got close to the events, showing us first-hand the ruins of buildings, streets ripped apart and homes left in shambles. But more importantly, he delves into the lives of those affected, capturing the deep emotional struggles they had to endure in the face of such calamity. The individuals featured range from every spectrum of society, such as a rescue worker, a business owner, a university student, and an elderly couple. Sharing their personal stories, they discuss losing their homes, struggling with insurance companies, and wrestling with government red tape while trying to rebuild their lives.

However, it’s not all gloom and despair. The documentary is also filled with moments of courage, hope, and community spirit. Smyth beautifully encapsulates how the people of Christchurch came together to help one another in those trying times. It shines a light on the neighborhood initiatives that sprang up to assist the vulnerable, the humor people found amidst the rubble, and the solidarity they showed in coming to terms with their shared trauma.

Smyth also explores the controversial handling of the crisis by authorities, including the slow governmental response and the frustration of locals demanding more effective assistance. Touching on these critical issues, the documentary provides a raw perspective on how a city manages and recovers from such devastating natural disasters, revealing the complexities and difficulties they encounter.

One of the moving segments in the film involves local musicians who created heartfelt songs in response to the earthquake, providing a sound backdrop to the visuals of both devastation and recovery. Their music becomes an essential part of the documentary, encapsulating the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by the Christchurch people and their determination to rise above it.

When a City Falls is also infused with powerful cinematic elements. Smyth uses creative camera angles, shadowing, dramatic still shots, and an affective soundtrack to add depth to the narrative. Particularly powerful is the use of time-lapse photography, showing the slow, painstaking cleanup and reconstruction efforts. The movie successfully manages to maintain a delicate balance between raw, candid, real-life footage, and an artistic depiction of the city’s tragic journey.

In essence, When a City Falls is a tribute to the resilience and spirit of the people of Christchurch. It's about unity and collective strength in the face of adversity. It's about a city that refused to fall and unyieldingly stood tall. This film serves as a thoughtful and emotional piece of storytelling, speaking to the strength of humanity in the face of nature's fury, making it far more than just a disaster documentary. It is a testament to human fortitude and a celebration of the human spirit.