Who Bombed Judi Bari?

Who Bombed Judi Bari? is an American documentary film that came out in 2012. Directed by accomplished filmmaker Mary Liz Thomson and produced by Darryl Cherney, this enthralling feature focuses on the complex, compelling life of activist Judi Bari, with featured appearances by David Brower and Jerry Brown.

The film takes its title from the intriguing, real-life mystery at the center of its narrative. In May 1990, a car bomb detonated under environmental and labor activist Judi Bari's seat, crippling her for life. Judi insists she was targeted for her activism, levelling accusations at the industrial logging industry and the government. The FBI, however, accuses Judi and Darryl Cherney of planting the bomb themselves to gain attention for their cause. This captivating documentary delves into this profound social conflict and the ensuing legal battle that spanned over a decade in an effort to seek the truth.

The centerpiece of the movie is the charismatic figure of Judi Bari herself. Despite her crippling injuries, she continued her activism, championing the preservation of old-growth redwood forests of North California and workers' rights in logging communities. Judi's passionate fight for environmental justice, her conviction, and her exceptional leadership qualities are depicted vividly in the film through a combination of rare archival footage, personal interviews, and animated scenes, bringing her multi-faceted persona to life. Bari is, in every sense, the heart and soul of Who Bombed Judi Bari?, a tireless crusader for justice, not just for the vulnerable ecosystems but also for the common people within them.

There also are features from David Brower, a prominent environmentalist, and former California Governor Jerry Brown. Brower's influence on modern environmentalism and how he and Bari intersect in their compelling narratives provides the film with an enlightening perspective on the environmental movement of the 20th century. Jerry Brown's appearances provide a nuanced understanding of the political landscape of the time, further deepening the film's rich tapestry of social commentary.

Who Bombed Judi Bari? is an engaging mix of true crime, historical documentary, and biographical expose, skillfully layered with social and political implications and rich historical significance. Thomson's polished direction is evident in the storytelling technique, blending interviews, news footage, courtroom sketches, narration, and personal anecdotes, resulting in a gripping piece of investigative journalism.

The documentary doesn't merely focus on the past but brings a timeless and still relevant story to the screen, dealing with themes of civil rights, corruption, environmental activism, and the resilience of the human spirit. It also emphasizes the relevance of Bari's mission that resonates in the current era, defying socio-political changes and technological advancements.

The film also serves as a chilling reminder of the potential sacrifices that come with standing up to systemic malpractice and cruelty and the price some are willing to pay in their fight for justice. It posthumously restores Bari's reputation and reaffirms her role as a hero for both environmental and labor rights, asking difficult questions about truth, fairness, and accountability in the process.

While the film makes it clear that there are no straightforward heroes or villains in the complex fabric of socio-political and environmental struggles, it never loses sight of its objective - the search for truth about the deadly attempt on Judi Bari's life. One of the film's most poignant strengths lies in its unwillingness to forget this vital quest.

In conclusion, Who Bombed Judi Bari? is not just a documentary, but a triumph of storytelling, a tribute to a heroic personality, and a potent statement against societal apathy, corruption and prejudice. A must-watch for those who value social justice, environmental sustainability, and an unbiased search for the truth.