Detroit: A Review of the City’s Reflection in Film and Gaming

Detroit: More Than Just Cars and Bankruptcy

Detroit. This name brings to mind many visuals: roaring engines, Motown music, and an urban landscape. But beneath its surface lies a city full of contrasts. This place inspires historical dramas and futuristic games. Today, we explore the heart of the Motor City, its films, its digital forms, and its rich history.

I. Lights, Camera, Detroit: The Movie "Detroit" (2017)

Kathryn Bigelow, known for films like "The Hurt Locker," directed "Detroit." She highlights a critical moment in American history. This isn't a feel-good film. It's raw and intense. "Detroit" immerses viewers in the chaos of the 1967 Detroit riots.

A. The Real Deal: Based on True, Devastating Events

Forget fictionalized stories. "Detroit" showcases real events. The film centers on the Algiers Motel incident during the sweltering riots of '67. This is not fabricated drama; it's actual history, and Bigelow emphasizes that. Released on the riots' 50th anniversary, the movie reflects deep racial tensions in the city.

B. Plot: When Summer Heat Turns to Fury

The summer of '67 hits Detroit hard. Heatwaves bring rising frustrations, leading to explosions of civil unrest. Two days into chaos, gunshots trigger a massive response from law enforcement – including the Detroit Police Department, Michigan State Police, and National Guard – to the Algiers Motel annex. What unfolds is a harrowing tale of police brutality. Forget polite inquiries; it's vicious, forceful interrogation as officers look for confessions. The night ends tragically with three unarmed young men fatally shot and others brutally beaten. It's a bleak picture, depicted with unfiltered realism.

C. How Accurate is "Accurate"? That's the Million Dollar Question.

Historical accuracy in films is tricky. Melvin Dismukes, a security guard in the film, claimed "Detroit" is "99.5% accurate" regarding the Algiers Motel events. Such a strong statement from someone present lends credibility. Still, even Bigelow noted some "moments of fiction," and screenwriter Mark Boal admitted to instances of "pure fiction." While the film strives for accuracy, it remains a dramatic take, not a documentary. Like that friend who insists their tale is 100% true but adds a bit of flair.

D. Critics' Verdict: Intense Start, Faltering Finish?

Critics voiced varied opinions on "Detroit." It earned praise for its visceral impact, with one review calling it "vivid and demanding." However, some asserted the film peaked too soon. A critique noted that the suspenseful motel scene stands out, leading to a less gripping narrative after. Comparable to pizza with amazing toppings but a disappointing crust. Still enjoyable, but could be better. Find more critiques at Rotten Tomatoes.

E. Not-So-Detroit Detroit: Setting the Scene

Here's a fun tidbit: even though set in Detroit, much of the filming occurred in Boston, Massachusetts. Yes, Beantown served as stand-in for the Motor City. Some later scenes filmed in Detroit included the iconic Fox Theatre, which plays a pivotal role in the story. The Dramatics, a group central to the narrative, planned to perform there the night the riots began. This provides a staggering contrast between musical hopes and societal turmoil. For more on "Detroit's" music, see this Variety article.

II. Detroit: Become Human (2018): When Video Games Get Philosophical

Next, we transition from historical drama to interactive storytelling with "Detroit: Become Human." This game is less about fast cars and more about android existentialism. Announced shortly after the "Detroit" film, it took four years before launching in May 2018. It's based on the "Kara" tech demo, which deserves a YouTube search; it's surprisingly impactful for a pre-production demo.

A. Androids and Existential Angst: Setting the Theme

"Detroit: Become Human" goes beyond simple gameplay mechanics. It tackles deeper themes. The game explores humanity by asking: what if robots are more human than we realize? It investigates consciousness, free will, and what it means to be alive within a striking narrative where choices matter. Serious topics for a video game, right? Yet this complexity adds to its draw.

B. Detroit as a Backdrop: Reviving a City in Pixels

Why pick Detroit? Developers chose this city to revive it virtually. Detroit is steeped in industrial innovation but faced economic hardships. By setting the game there, they focus attention on a city that shaped American industry yet fell into decline. It's like offering Detroit a futuristic makeover.

C. Plot and Characters: Meet Kara, Connor, and Markus

Picture Detroit in 2038. Hyper-realistic androids roam freely, nearly indistinguishable from humans. "Detroit: Become Human" introduces three android protagonists: * **Kara:** She begins as a domestic servant but gains awareness, realizing there's more than mere servitude. Her journey centers on freedom and identity. * **Connor:** Initially cold and logical, Connor is a police android hunting down deviant androids - those that gained sentience. However, he faces complexities as the narrative unfolds. * **Markus:** A revolutionary figure, Markus aims to liberate fellow androids and lead the fight for their rights. His charisma fuels the android rebellion. Players’ choices influence how their stories intertwine and diverge, resembling a choose-your-own-adventure book but with visual richness and android struggles.

D. Multiple Endings: Your Choices Matter (Seriously)

Forget simple endings. "Detroit: Become Human" offers branching narratives with countless conclusions. Player choices determine Kara, Connor, and Markus's destinies as well as the overall android revolution outcome. Want harmony between humans and androids? Achieving that requires strategic choices throughout gameplay. Many consider the "best" ending one where everyone survives and forges paths to peace; it's tricky but worth striving for.

E. Connor's Crossroads: Machine or Deviant?

Connor's journey poses intriguing dilemmas as he confronts major moral questions. A defining choice? Whether to become a deviant himself. If he deviates, he can align with Markus and the Jericho rebellion. Markus then must decide whether to welcome or eliminate him. If Connor joins Jericho, he can leverage his knowledge to recruit more androids from CyberLife, their manufacturer. If he resists deviation, he remains cold and fixated on eradicating Markus, forcing a showdown with Hank, his human partner, if circumstances unfold accordingly. and Indian Village are examples. These areas showcase historic architecture, parks, and vibrant communities. People here take pride in their neighborhoods, fostering a sense of belonging. Despite challenges, these neighborhoods thrive with art, culture, and joyous gatherings.

N. Community Spirit: Resilience at Its Core

Detroit's community spirit stands out. Residents come together during tough times. They organize events and festivals to celebrate their history and culture. The city’s potential lies in its people, who remain hopeful and resilient. Together, they inspire change and promote unity.

O. Education: Critical for Progress

Education plays a vital role in Detroit’s recovery. Schools are working to improve learning conditions. Educational initiatives focus on equipping students with skills for future jobs. Knowledge is key to economic growth. Investing in education enriches the community's future prospects.

P. Arts and Culture: A Creative Hub

Detroit is alive with arts and culture. The city boasts art galleries, theaters, music venues, and festivals. It celebrates diversity through various cultural expressions. The creativity flourishes here. Artists find a home and inspire new generations to explore their gifts.

Q. Sports: A City That Loves Its Teams

Sports unite Detroit’s residents. The city has professional teams in football, baseball, basketball, and hockey. Fans fill the stands, cheering passionately for their teams. This sports culture fosters camaraderie. It strengthens community ties as people share victories and defeats together.

R. Transportation: Navigating Change

Transportation is evolving in Detroit. Efforts focus on improving public transit. Initiatives encourage walking and biking in certain areas. These changes aim to create a more connected and accessible city. A well-developed transportation network enhances daily life for residents.

S. Environment: Greening the City

Detroit is taking steps toward sustainability. Community gardens and urban farms are emerging throughout the city. These efforts promote local food production and environmental awareness. Engaging in sustainability initiatives, residents work together to enhance green spaces and improve air quality.

T. Future Outlook: Building a Brighter Path

Detroit’s future holds promise amid its challenges. Community involvement continues to drive positive change. With a focus on economic revitalization and social equity, the city strives for progress. As residents unite for a common purpose, hope grows for what lies ahead.

IV. Conclusion: Detroit’s Journey

In summary, Detroit's story encompasses resilience and transformation. It navigates decline while aspiring for renewal. Through vibrant neighborhoods, a creative spirit, and community initiatives, the city demonstrates strength against adversity. As hope rises, Detroit’s iconic character endures, paving the way for future generations. and Sherwood Forest are examples of nice areas in Detroit, Michigan. These neighborhoods contain historic charm. They also have vibrant culture and a sense of community. Detroit is not only urban decay. It features thriving neighborhoods and renewed urban living.

IV. Detroit Miscellanea: A Few Fun Facts

Before we end our Detroit deep dive, here are some more tidbits to enhance your knowledge.

A. People of Detroit: Detroiters or Detroits?

What do you call someone from Detroit? "Detroiter" is the most common and grammatically correct term. You may hear "Detroits" in casual usage. People from Michigan are called Michiganders or Michiganians.

B. Eminem: Detroit's Rap King

Detroit has many famous musicians, yet Eminem stands out. Also known as Marshall Mathers or Slim Shady, he is the most recognized rapper. Born in Detroit in 1972, Eminem has become one of the best-selling artists, representing his hometown.

C. Daniel Gilbert: Detroit's Wealthiest

Who is the wealthiest person in Detroit? That title belongs to Daniel Gilbert, founder and board chairman of Rocket Companies. As of the 2024 Forbes 400 list, he is also the wealthiest person in Michigan. Gilbert invests heavily in Detroit's downtown revitalization.

D. Hollywood Loves Detroit (Sometimes): Other Films Shot Here

"Detroit" (2017) isn't the only film shot in the Motor City. George Clooney worked on films in metro Detroit, including "Out of Sight" (1998) and "Up in the Air" (2009). Detroit's urban landscape has made it a compelling backdrop for filmmakers. Detroit is cinematic, digital, and real. It is a city of contrasts, where history meets the future. The gritty realism of "Detroit" shows its complexity. "Detroit: Become Human" reveals cyberpunk dreams. The city continues to capture imaginations and defy categorization. It has been down, but it is certainly not out.