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(We
aren't blocking traffic,) The
films We Are Traffic! and Return of the Scorcher
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We Are Traffic! chronicles the history and development of the "Critical Mass" bicycle movement-- one of the most spirited and dynamic social/political movements of the apathetic 90's. In over 200 cities in 14 different countries, Critical Mass has now become a monthly ritual of reclaiming the streets by bicycle activists riding en masse. With traffic congestion, pollution, and road rage on the rise, growing numbers around the world are advocating for transportation alternatives, and Critical Mass is at the cutting edge of this mindset. We
Are Traffic! tracks this leaderless, grassroots movement
from its beginnings in San Francisco in 1992 to its spread across the
globe. With a radical direct-action approach the participants of
Critical Mass are celebrating the bicycle and in turn taking on perhaps
the century's most sacred cow: the automobile. |
Presenting both the successes and failures of this unique movement We Are Traffic! shows how Critical Mass has brought together complete strangers in an exuberant, commercial-free public space filled with creativity and unpredictability. In its efforts to raise awareness Critical Mass has both inspired and challenged the public while often confounding public officials and police departments. We Are Traffic! is a fascinating analysis of a modern political movement: Critical Mass--which challenges the very notion of what a political movement should look like and how it should function. We Are
Traffic! investigates
vibrant examples of transportation-related art created and displayed in
public places, focusing on the work of mural artist Rigo23, whose bold
traffic-sign motifs ask questions instead of giving commands. Also
highlighted is the work of other Critical Mass-associated Provocative and entertaining, this documentary presents a side of Critical Mass not seen in mainstream media and illustrates the amazing geographic spread of Critical Mass, providing glimpses of Critical Masses in Austin,TX, Eugene, OR, Chapel Hill, NC, New York, NY, Chicago, IL, Copenhagen, London and Sydney. We Are
Traffic! celebrates
modern grassroots politics, free expression and the potential for
revitalized public spaces. |
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