“The story about sticks and stones may break your bones but words can never hurt you?” Ameena Matthews asked. “ Words’ll get you killed.”

In the documentary, The Interrupters by Steve James and Alex Koltowitz, has a violence prevention group called, “CeaseFire.” Which focuses their attention on the street violence and internal struggles of everyday people.

The documentary takes place in communities within Illinois; Chicago, where murders and violence are not a surprise. It spans to one year, where the seasons are noted to the audience. The film should be viewed by an adult audience considering that it contains mature language, footage of fighting, and murders. The manifestation of death is also seen throughout the movie, from funerals and news broadcasts to graffiti on the park walls inscribed, “I’m next.” Optimistically, the film displays the courageousness from the people of CeaseFire by confronting and attempting to end the conflicts, where even some were physically hurt in the process. Their compassion to help those who are in need were undeniably evident.

Amongst the vast group of people in the film, three CeaseFire advocates were put on the spotlight. “Find that soft spot on that person,” Ameena said, “not weak, but soft.” Ameena was one of the only female members in CeaseFire. She explained how she was the daughter of the notorious Jeff Fort, a former gang leader.

Cobe Williams was one of the most interesting characters. Cobe, known for his experience in gang life and drug trafficking, transformed these disreputable attributes into sources he used to stop violence. Many people, especially gang members, relate and respect him.

Eddie Bocanegra specializes in aiding others around his area, a predominantly Hispanic community. Formerly known as “Bandit,” simply because he had the competence to steal cars.

Not only was street violence publicized, but The Interrupters also debriefed the misrepresentations of violence in the streets of Chicago. CeaseFire interviewed a plethora of people who were affiliated in the scuffles and asked why they fought. Ultimately, the majority had the same reply. Rather the cliche of gang activity, the main reason was interpersonal conflict.

“Violence is a contagious disease,” M.D. Gary Slutkin said. This was an explanation that fans found intriguing. Instead of alienating these people due to how they behave differently from others or where they are from, Slutkin created a good point. A disease is an entity that all human beings can attain, same goes with violence. This helps people, whether if they live in a safe or dangerous community, realize that violence can affect anyone and that everyone’s similar to one another.

In retrospect, The Interrupters was a documentary that fans genuinely enjoyed. The film gave an accurate representation of violence in Chicago. It also showed how dedicated people are to help one another, a theme that’s quite inspiring. Ending the documentary, made some a bit disappointed, as fans were expecting more to come. But overall, fans enjoyed the film and its message.