Still We Ride

Still We Ride is a 2005 documentary film that explores the conflict between public space and the freedom of assembly, witnessed through the lens of cycling activism in New York City. It was directed by independent filmmakers Elizabeth Press, Andrew Lynn, and Christopher Ryan and stands as a powerful statement on civil liberties and public space.

At its core, Still We Ride involves an intricate portrayal of a ground-level struggle, specifically focusing on the group of cyclists who participate in the monthly Critical Mass bike ride in New York City. Critical Mass gatherings, which initially began in San Francisco in the early 1990s, represent a form of advocacy for bikers’ rights. During these events, cyclists convene in large groups to ride together in city centers, emphasizing their presence and pointing out the need for better cycling infrastructure.

The film begins in August 2004 at the time of the Republican National Convention, when New York City decided to enforce a long-ignored law that requires any "group" of 20 or more cyclists to obtain a permit to ride together. The police began a crackdown on Critical Mass that led to a legal epic saga and mass arrests. In documenting this saga, the movie presents the city's significant transformation of public space, noting how this transformation impacts the city's residents.

Interweaving footage from the rides with interviews from participants, lawyers, and city officials, the film invites viewers to consider the question of who truly owns public space. Alongside its exploration of the tension between the NYPD and Critical Mass activists, Still We Ride opens a wider dialogue about civil liberties, offering a vivid display of the power (and limitations) of peaceful protest and activism.

One of the most potent elements of Still We Ride is its examination of controversial policing methods, particularly during the communal rides that create a sense of camaraderie among the city's cycling community. The filmmakers delve into the topic of how law enforcement and the justice system can be used as tools to curb public protests and manage civil disobedience.

The film expertly balances the personal stories of the activists with an overarching exploration of the political and legal landscape they contend with. In tandem, it shows the resolve and unwavering determination of the Critical Mass participants, reminding us of the potent power of peaceful protest and an idealistic belief in the right to assemble.

The directors have crafted a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the impact of gentrification and corporatization on public space and its influence on the right of the public to use and occupy these spaces. They draw attention to how freedoms taken for granted can quickly become a battleground, leading to unexpected forms of activism.

While Still We Ride is a particular story about a particular place and group, its themes are universal and resonate widely in urban settings around the world. It ignites a conversation about the city dweller's relationship with public space, the margins and limits of civil liberties, and the role of active citizenship and community-building in urban areas.

Visually, the film captures the electric energy of New York City and its vibrant cycling community. From the cacophonous streets filled with pedal-pushers to the quieter moments of solidarity among the cyclists, the city becomes a character in its own right - a stage for a battle over freedom, ownership, and space.

Through the blend of its dynamic storytelling, engaging character portraits, and sharp political commentary, Still We Ride emerges as more than just a film about cycling activism. It's a series of compelling questions about how citizens relate to their environment, each other, and the system they are part of.

In conclusion, Still We Ride is a compelling documentary that captivates not just cycling enthusiasts but also viewers interested in urban development, civil liberties, and the fabric of one of the world's most iconic cities. The film is both a tribute to the resilient spirit of New York City's cycling community and a discourse on the right to public space. It is a critical narrative that encourages viewers to reflect on their relationship with their communities and city spaces.