Sold-out Detroit bankruptcy documentary again available for free at-home streaming
Photo: Ryan Garza for the Detroit Free Press
From the Detroit Free Press, published May 3, 2022
If you missed "Gradually, Then Suddenly: The Bankruptcy of Detroit" during Freep Film Festival, there is a new opportunity to watch the documentary at home — for free.
All advance tickets for the two film's two opening night showings at Freep Film Festival on Wednesday were quickly gobbled up. Additionally, the film — which provides a detailed look at Detroit's historic bankruptcy — was also available virtually through the festival, and those streaming tickets also sold out on Wednesday.
Now The Kresge Foundation has partnered with Freep Film Festival and the filmmakers to make more free views available to Michigan residents. In a recent column, Kresge Foundation Rip Rapson described "Gradually, Then Suddenly" as "gripping" and timely.
The new availability will last for two weeks, or until the capped number of streams is reached, whichever comes first.
Reservations for the virtual screening can be made now at the festival's site. Tickets are limited. Those who reserve tickets will receive an email that allows access to the film. More details on how the virtual access works are available here.
“Gradually, Then Suddenly” tells the dramatic story of Detroit’s 2013 bankruptcy, framing the city’s dire financial situation as a canary in the coal mine for municipalities nationwide. From the controversial appointment of an emergency manager to the enactment of the so-called Grand Bargain, the film offers new insights and behind-the-scenes details of the crucial juncture in the city’s history.
In 2021, the documentary won the $200,000 Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film, a competition designed to help bring historical documentaries to the finish line.
Additionally, distinct from the film festival, the filmmaking team has scheduled some more in-person screenings of the documentary. Details are in the story below.
'Gradually, Then Suddenly: The Bankruptcy of Detroit'
New virtual availability
Free
Tickets available now through May 15 at www.freepfilmfestival.com
Read it on the Detroit Free Press site here
