The Friendliest Town

The Friendliest Town is a compelling 2019 documentary film that takes its audience deep into the heart of Pocomoke City, Maryland, bringing into focus the complex and troubling issues of race, system bias, and law enforcement in small-town America. Directed by renowned journalist Stephen Janis and produced by Taya Graham, the film features the compelling stories of teenager Diane Downing and former Baltimore Police Officer Kelvin Sewell.

The Friendliest Town opens with a panoramic view of Pocomoke City, affectionately referred to as "The Friendliest Town on the Eastern Shore". This tight-knit community, primarily made up of African Americans, become embroiled in controversy with racial undertones, which forms the crux of the narrative. The focus is on Kelvin Sewell, the town's first African American police chief dedicated to community policing, and teenager Diane Downing, whose life has been significantly impacted by law enforcement.

The documentary traces the story of Sewell, who, after being dismissed from the Baltimore Police Department for pointing out institutional corruption, seeks a fresh start in Pocomoke City, known as the once unsafest city in Maryland where crime rates and drug trafficking were rampant. Sewell adopts a community-based policing strategy to combat illegal activities and rebuild trust between the community and the police force, ultimately leading to a remarkable reduction in crime rates. Recognizing the importance of communication and involvement of the community members in safety efforts, Sewell's efforts reflect a radical departure from the traditional, heavy-handed law enforcement that the community was accustomed to.

Sewell's approach brings about considerable change, but his attempts to battle entrenched corruption within law enforcement draws ire, setting in motion tension with city officials. The documentary captures Sewell's tenacity and resilience in the face of political pressure, offering a fascinating exploration of the realities of seeking change within institutions often resistant to it.

On the other hand, Diane Downing, a Pocomoke City teenager, offers a profound and deeply personal perspective on the police and community relationships. Diane's story showcases the hardship and trauma inflicted on the families by a system failing to hold officers accountable for misconducts and unlawful actions. Still, it also brings forth the remarkable strength of the community, their solidarity and the relentless pursuit of justice.

The Friendliest Town pulls no punches as it unveils the realities of living in a supposedly 'post-racial' America, exploring the insidious bias and systemic corruption that inadvertently fuels racial tensions. The documentary features interviews from community members, expert commentary, and a wealth of archival footage, immersing the viewers into the experiences and emotions of Pocomoke City's residents.

Director Stephen Janis adeptly crafts this piece of investigative journalism with the skill of a seasoned professional, deftly managing to keep the audience invested in the narrative. His storytelling offers an in-depth overview of the community, providing an intricate examination of a small-town America rarely seen on screen.

The stunning cinematography and occasional use of slow-motion imagery are incredibly effective in amplifying the dramatic impact of the narrative, while the subdued score which bolsters the narrative further adds to the immersive experience. The documentary has a realistic, yet stylistic visual language, creating an emotional echo, and a deep connection with the viewers.

Overall, The Friendliest Town is an essential viewing experience, posing hard-hitting questions about the value of progressive police practices, racial discrimination, and the sometimes-perilous quest for justice. It is a poignant exploration of a divided community that shines a glaring spotlight on the harsh reality of systemic injustice in America. The documentary is a testament to the resilience and unyielding spirit of a community and individuals like Diane Downing and Kelvin Sewell, who refuse to be deterred in their pursuit of change and justice.