Guns in America, an ambitious documentary series by AJ+ Docs, examines this country’s relationship with guns in an era of relentless intimidation, domestic and international terrorism, and widespread gun violence. This comprehensive series is divided into six 15-minute parts, each covering a different angle of the debate.
Part One, Trump of the NRA, examines the evolving identity of the National Rifle Association (NRA) and its involvement in the mainstream political landscape. The filmmakers accused the group, originally formed as a nonpartisan advocate for gun rights, of falling prey to the profit interests of gun manufacturers. In recent years, they have courted sympathetic politicians who have the will and ability to advance their cause. They provided more than $30 million in funding for President Trump’s campaign during the last U.S. election and continue to wield outsized influence in his efforts to overturn industry regulation.
Episode 2, Weapon of Choice explores the controversy surrounding easy access to assault weapons. The AR-15, in particular, seems to be the weapon of choice for many mass shooting instigators. The NRA attributes the gun’s unhealthy appeal to mass media romanticized depictions of violence, but critics point to its inappropriate ability to inflict mass casualties.
For some, the outbreak of school shootings is a sign that schools need more guns. Part 3, Arming the Classroom, explores whether allowing the use of firearms on school property is an effective way to reduce violence.
Perhaps no part of the United States is more plagued by gun violence than Chicago. The fourth harrowing episode in the series, Chicago Under Fire, examines the gang culture that dominates parts of the city, and the sources of the guns that continue to flood neighborhoods.
Could smart weapons provide a solution to the pandemic? The next wave of innovative firearms—including those using fingerprint recognition technology—is explored in Episode 5 Locked and Coded.
The final section, The Impact of Concealment, looks at the growing number of law-abiding citizens choosing to carry concealed weapons in public. Is this trend making us safer, or just paving the way for more senseless violence?
Insightful and provocative, Guns in America offers a thoughtful analysis of one of America’s most contentious issues.
