‘Detropia’ sees Detroit as a reflection of the U.S.
It’s no secret that Detroit has its problems. Economic troubles and the fall of the auto industry loom over the city.
The new film “Detropia” by Rachel Grady and Heidi Ewing chronicles the frustration of the city and how what is happening in Detroit is a reflection of the rest of the United States. The film describes the degradation of the city, the newcomers moving into the area, and the people that stayed after the economic downturn.
“Things were really bellying out in the city and I kept wondering why and what happened here? I thought that maybe there was a film to be made here” Ewing said. “So we went in sort of blindly and moved to Detroit with our crew. We waited for the city to speak to us and see what story it would tell us and I think we found something compelling.”
Heidi Ewing and Tommy Stephens discuss the film and its portrayal of the city. Stephens is owner of the Raven Blues Lounge in Detroit and is profiled in the film. Throughout the movie, Stephens deals with trying to wade through the changes happening in the city and how he can use them to make his business prosper.
The film is set to make its theatrical release on Sept. 7.
There’s a lot happening in the world. Through it all, Marketplace is here for you.
You rely on Marketplace to break down the world’s events and tell you how it affects you in a fact-based, approachable way. We rely on your financial support to keep making that possible.
Your donation today powers the independent journalism that you rely on. For just $5/month, you can help sustain Marketplace so we can keep reporting on the things that matter to you.
