9 Must-Watch Documentaries About the American Midwest
Essential Viewing for History Buffs
The American Midwest is a region rich in history, culture, and diverse stories waiting to be told. Documentaries capture these narratives, offering unique insights into the lives and landscapes that define this part of the United States.
Understanding the Midwest through documentaries provides a window into the region's unique experiences and traditions. These films explore everything from rural life and agricultural challenges to urban development and historical events, painting a comprehensive picture of the area's complexity.
1) The Last Cowboy (2005)
"The Last Cowboy," directed by Jon Alpert, premiered in 2005. The documentary offers an intimate look into the life of Vern Sager, a true American cowboy. Over 23 years, the film captures Vern's experiences in one of the most isolated regions of the United States.
Vern faces numerous challenges, including extreme weather conditions and cattle rustlers. He also deals with the pressures of international agribusiness. The film showcases his resilience and determination to continue his way of life.
The documentary is notable for its raw and authentic portrayal of a disappearing lifestyle. It highlights the reality of modern cowboy life, providing a glimpse into the personal and professional struggles Vern endures.
For more information, visit IMDb.
2) American Factory (2019)
American Factory offers a compelling look at the intersection of American and Chinese work cultures. Directed by Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert, the documentary captures the reopening of a shuttered General Motors plant in Ohio by the Chinese company Fuyao.
The film provides a fly-on-the-wall perspective on the cultural clash between Chinese management and American labor. Through this lens, viewers gain insight into the complexities of globalization and industrial transformation.
It showcases both hope and tension as Fuyaoâs presence brings jobs to the local community. However, the differing work ethics and management styles between the two cultures lead to significant challenges.
The film debuted at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival and later became available on Netflix. It serves as an essential viewing for those interested in labor politics, globalization, and cultural dynamics.
For more information, visit Wikipedia - American Factory.
3) The Gathering Place (2016)
"The Gathering Place" documents the quiet yet impactful lives of various Midwestern communities centered around a community hall in rural Minnesota. The film captures the essence of small-town gatherings, where everyone knows each other, and traditions are deeply rooted.
Directed by local filmmaker Sarah Johnson, this documentary paints a vivid picture of the way community spaces act as both physical and emotional havens.
The film features interviews and personal stories from residents spanning several generations. They share experiences of weddings, town meetings, and community events that have taken place in the hall. These narratives highlight the importance of preserving such communal spaces in an era of increasing urbanization.
"The Gathering Place" also addresses the challenges faced by these communities, including economic downturns and population decline. Yet, it underscores the resilience and spirit of the residents who continue to find solace and unity in their shared space. This film provides an intimate look into the heart of rural American life.
For more information, visit IMDb.
4) The Illinois Parables (2016)
Deborah Stratmanâs "The Illinois Parables" stands out as a poignant examination of the history and landscape of Illinois. This hour-long experimental documentary is divided into eleven distinct segments, each tied to specific places within the state.
Filmed in 16mm, the work captures the state's landscape from a fixed vantage point, adding a timeless quality to the visuals.
The documentary delves into various themes, including faith, technology, and resistance, by exploring historical events and sites such as the Cahokia Mounds, a prehistoric Native American site in southern Illinois.
"The Illinois Parables" reveals the hidden layers of the state's history, presenting Illinois as a microcosm of broader American themes like displacement and struggle.
Itâs a reflective and thought-provoking documentary that unearths the complexities and nuances of the Midwestern stateâs past and present.
For more information, you can visit the IMDb page.
5) Country Music by Ken Burns (2019)
Ken Burns' documentary series, "Country Music," explores the history and legacy of country music in America. Spanning several episodes, the series delves into the genreâs evolution from its roots in ballads, hymns, and blues to its emergence as a mainstream force.
The series highlights the contributions of key figures like Gene Autry, Bob Wills, and Roy Acuff. It provides a thorough examination of how these artists shaped the sound and culture of country music.
Burns also examines the regional influences on the genre. From the Appalachian mountains to honky tonks in Texas and the iconic Nashville scene, he captures the diversity within country music.
Viewers gain insight into the social and historical contexts that influenced the genre. The Great Depression, World War II, and other significant events are discussed, showcasing their impact on country music's development.
Featuring interviews, archival footage, and performances, the series is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in the story of country music. Itâs available for streaming on various platforms, including PBS and Amazon Prime.
6) Minding the Gap (2018)
Directed by Bing Liu, "Minding the Gap" is a poignant documentary centered on three young men in Rockford, Illinois.
The film intertwines themes of skateboarding, friendship, and the challenging transitions from adolescence to adulthood.
Bing Liu captures the lives and struggles of his friends, Keire and Zack, as they confront personal demons and family issues.
This documentary stands out for its raw, emotional depth and honest portrayal of life in the Rust Belt.
It sheds light on issues such as domestic violence, economic hardship, and the fight for identity in a less prosperous area of the U.S.
The film has received critical acclaim, winning the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Breakthrough Filmmaking at the Sundance Film Festival.
For more information on "Minding the Gap," visit its Wikipedia page.
7) The Overnighters (2014)
Directed by Jesse Moss, "The Overnighters" highlights the challenges faced by workers flocking to a North Dakota town amidst an oil boom.
Thousands arrive chasing the American dream only to find scarce job opportunities and a severe housing crisis.
Pastor Jay Reinke converts his church into a temporary shelter for these laborers, offering them a place to stay and some much-needed support.
The documentary captures the tension as the town grapples with the influx of transient workers and the limits of compassion.
From the Pastor's unwavering commitment to help, to the community's growing resistance, it provides a poignant look at current economic and social issues.
With awards from Sundance, this film stands out in modern documentary storytelling.
For more information, visit IMDB.
8) Rich Hill (2014)
Rich Hill provides an intimate look into the lives of children growing up in a small town in Missouri. The documentary, directed by Andrew Droz Palermo and Tracy Droz Tragos, won the Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival.
The film follows three boysâAndrew, Harley, and Appacheyâas they navigate the challenges of adolescence amidst extreme poverty. It paints a raw, unfiltered portrait of their resilience, hopes, and daily struggles.
Through its cinéma vérité style, Rich Hill captures the essence of small-town America. The directors opted for a narration-free approach, allowing the boys' voices to tell their own stories. This method increases the documentary's authenticity and emotional impact.
Rich Hill is significant for its humanizing portrayal of the American poor, offering viewers an eye-opening experience into a world often overlooked by mainstream media. It sheds light on systemic issues while showcasing the personal determination and dreams of its young subjects.
For more information on Rich Hill, visit IMDb.
9) An American Mosaic
"An American Mosaic" (1999) is a compelling documentary that captures the essence of the American Midwest through diverse stories and perspectives.
This documentary weaves together various personal narratives from residents of the Midwest, showcasing a tapestry of life in this region.
Each story highlights unique aspects of Midwestern culture, from agricultural life to industrial challenges.
The film also delves into the historical and social changes impacting communities across the Midwest.
The directors use stunning cinematography to bring to life the landscapes and environments these stories emerge from.
"An American Mosaic" provides viewers with an intimate look at the resilience and spirit of Midwesterners.
This documentary is an excellent resource for anyone looking to understand the complex, multifaceted identity of the American Midwest.
Historical Context
The American Midwest has a rich history marked by early settlement, transformative economic shifts, and significant cultural contributions. Key developments include initial agricultural communities and progressive urban growth.
Early Settlement and Development
The settlement of the Midwest began in earnest in the early 19th century. Pioneers, primarily from the eastern United States, moved into the region seeking fertile farming land.
Land acts, such as the Homestead Act of 1862, played a significant role in attracting settlers by offering large tracts of land at little to no cost.
The founding of settlements like Nicodemus, Kansas highlighted the diversity of the settler populations. Nicodemus became notable as a prominent African American frontier farming community, reflecting broader migration and settlement patterns among Black Americans post-Civil War.
Railroads also established vital links between the Midwest and other regions, stimulating economic growth and urban development.
Economic Shifts Over the Decades
Initial economic activities in the Midwest revolved around agriculture, with vast stretches of farmland producing essential crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans.
Industrialization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries transformed the Midwest into a manufacturing powerhouse, particularly in cities such as Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland. These cities became hubs for steel production, automobile manufacturing, and other heavy industries.
The economic landscape shifted again in the latter half of the 20th century, with a decline in traditional manufacturing jobs. This led to economic diversification, with growth in service sectors, education, and healthcare, altering the region's economic identity.
Barack Obamaâs political rise in Illinois underscores the Midwest's evolving economic and cultural significance.
Cultural Significance
The Midwest has a profound influence on American culture, from shaping literature to its representation in film and media. Its impact can be seen through numerous works that highlight its unique social and cultural landscapes.
Impact on American Literature
Writers such as Mark Twain and Willa Cather have intricately woven Midwestern settings and themes into their narratives. Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and Cather's "My Ăntonia" explore themes of rural life, community, and the pioneer spirit which are core elements of Midwestern culture. As a backdrop for literature, the Midwest provides a canvas for storytellers to depict the quintessential American experiences intertwined with social values and historical events.
Representation in Film and Media
Movies and documentaries often aim to capture the essence of the Midwestâs cultural and historical landscape. Films like "Twister" portray the region's relationship with nature, while documentaries such as "The African American Midwest" illuminate untold stories of Black history in the region. These media representations offer viewers a glimpse into the diverse and complex identity of the Midwest, reinforcing its significance within the broader American narrative.
