Eyes on the Prize - No Easy Walk (1962-1966) [Part 4 of 14] (1987)

Starring:

• Julian Bond

IMDB.com
"Eyes on the Prize" is an exceptional series--mostly because instead of the typical hour or half hour documentary, it's VERY thorough and very detailed---covering not just an event but the civil rights movement from 1954 through 1965--and a LOT happened during that time. This isn't surprising, as PBS has made tons of interesting and well-crafted documentaries over the years.

This episode has to do with the reactions of the Southern cities to the strikes and protests of the early 1960s. In one case, the local law enforcement was smart about it--and treated the protesters reasonably well. Another (led by the infamous Bull Connor) reacted with aggression--and ended up, ironically, helping the cause of civil rights because the rest of the nation was so horrified with images of protesters being attacked with fire hoses as well as children getting locked up in prison! All in all, a fascinating episode--and a sad episode in American history. Overall, very well constructed and compelling--and well worth seeing.

Transcript for "No Easy Walk": PBS.org