STATE OF ARIZONA, THE

 

THE PLOT THUS FAR

The State of Arizona captures the explosive emotions and complex realities behind Arizona’s headline-grabbing struggle with illegal immigration. From ground zero of the nation’s immigration debate, the film follows Arizona’s controversial “show me your papers” law through the stories of Arizonans on all sides of this divisive issue – from those who wrote it, to those who supported it, to those who dreaded its wrath.

WHAT WE THOUGHT

“The State of Arizona” is a documentary that looks at Arizona’s “Show Me Your Papers” law. For people outside of the area, it just looked like illegal immigration supporters fighting with that state’s conservative base. What made it different was how aggressive both sides became in the matter. While I enjoy seeing citizens become involved in the democratic process, it felt like the illegal immigration side was working from a shaky standing ground. If you illegally enter the country, you’re automatically wrong. This isn’t about which family members are here or are not. It’s about who broke the law and taking care of the matter.

SB 1070 has been argued as being a common sense law. If you don’t belong here, then leave. However, the ACLU and other organizations state that it infringes on civil liberties. What struck me as odd was how no one argued for or against pushing the illegal aliens into becoming naturalized. The lack of long-term answers was frustrating, as both sides spent the 90 minute runtime spouting out their tired political rhetoric. I expected way more from the guys that created “Farmingville”.

The DVD comes with a PDF discussion guide as the special feature. The A/V Quality is strong with a supportive transfer and a Dolby audio track. The Dolby track doesn’t get much back channel action. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase to fans of immigration studies.

RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW!