Charm City

Charm City may not be an easy watch, but Ness argues that through empathy, progress can be made.

The film captures up close the way violence transforms neighborhoods and families with an immediacy that transcends headlines or sensationalism.

There’s still charm in Charm City, despite it all.

Even when the epidemic of violence touches a beloved character, Ness’ careful quilting of compassion and action across her years of filming suggests a fight that won’t diminish for these citizens.

Despite its dreary outlook, the film does offer a semblance of hope in the generosity, good humor and tenacious sangfroid of the people it portrays.