When the 33 buildings that comprised St. Louis’ Pruitt-Igoe public housing complex were infamously imploded, they took with them shocking physical proof of how the United States has failed to deal with its urban poor. Once beautifully maintained and sparkling with newness and hope, Pruitt-Igoe was born from good intentions. But when the economy weakened and legislators’ noble intentions drifted away, the complex was allowed to sink into abject decline, becoming lawless and, for the residents who remained, often terrifying.

Comprised of gripping archival footage and stirring personal interviews, this enlightening history probes complex issues of race, poverty and class with artistry and compassion.

(Los Angeles)