Charm City takes viewers beyond the television headlines and over the front lines of violence in Baltimore; in doing so, it reveals the grit and compassion of the city’s citizens, police, and government officials trying to reclaim their future.
As Baltimore and the nation struggle to come to terms with the bitter legacy between the police and the community, Charm City will go behind the scenes as citizens and police officers reckon with one another. At a moment that is fraught with increased violence, pervasive fear and a deepening divide, Charm City will take viewers beyond the television news to explore what has become so chronically broken between police and communities.
Press
“Even when the epidemic of violence touches a beloved character, Ness' careful quilting of compassion and action across her years of filming suggests a fight that won't diminish for these citizens.”
Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times
"The film captures up close the way violence transforms neighborhoods and families with an immediacy that transcends headlines or sensationalism."
Ben Kenigsberg, New York Times
"Despite its dreary outlook, the film does offer a semblance of hope in the generosity, good humor and tenacious sang-froid of the people it portrays."
Jordan Mintzer, Hollywood Reporter
"Filmmaker Marilyn Ness gains extraordinary access to her subjects and apparently their trust."
Leah Pickett, Chicago Reader
Premieres & Awards
Official Selection
Tribeca 2018
Official Selection
Maryland Film Festival 2018
Official Selection
Nashville Film Festival 2018
Official Selection
AFI DOCS 2018
