“Los Angeles, a city of 4 million people, sees 11 structure fires per day. Compare that to Detroit, which has 713,000 residents and 30 structure fires a day.”
-Burn, the Documentary
A camera crew was imbedded with Detroit Engine Company 50, one of the busiest firehouses in the United States. They documented firsthand the struggles to save a dying city with one of the highest arson rates in the world. And with this footage, they created Burn: One Year on the Front Lines of the Battle to Save Detroit.
Burn is screened in select theaters around the country with a significant amount of the proceeds going to the Leary Firefighters Foundation to purchase much needed gear for the firefighters in Detroit. Due to budget cuts, these firefighters haven’t had a raise in 10 years and are using outdated and unsafe gear.
It is truly an independently funded documentary. Screenings are arranged in cooperation with local theaters and groups interested in spreading the word and helping with the fundraising and promotion.
We have the opportunity to see a screening of Burn at the Grand Cinema in Tacoma on Tuesday May 21 and Wednesday May 22, 2013. There are only a few showing each day, although they have added a two more due to demand. At my last check (yesterday, May 18) there were only a few tickets left and some showings are sold out. Contact the Grand Cinema for tickets ($15 advance, $20 day of show.)
This is more than just a documentary about Detroit. It is a cautionary tale about what can happen when budget cuts cripple a fire department while demand for their services are growing exponentially. It shows the real danger that these men and women face each day when they start their shift.
This is not appropriate for young children due to intense situations, language, and some nudity.
If this is a film you would like to see screened in Gig Harbor, here is a form you can fill out and submit to the filmmakers to request a screening. If they have enough interest and support, they will work with local groups to bring this important documentary to a local theater.