137 Shots 2021

Art & Craft

In terms of direction and visual craft, the film offers clear, well‑shot footage of Cleveland and maintains a straightforward chronological flow. Critics acknowledge competent editing but note that selective scene choices reinforce a one‑sided argument. The production design is functional, yet the visual strategy sometimes feels calculated to persuade rather than inform. Overall, the artistic execution is adequate but unremarkable.

Character & Emotion

When evaluating character depth, the documentary relies on interview excerpts that emphasize stark emotional testimony. Some viewers find the portrayals raw and resonant, while others contend that the subjects are presented without nuanced context, reducing complex individuals to caricatures of villainy or victimhood. The lack of balanced perspectives limits emotional engagement, resulting in a generally weak character dimension.

Story & Flow

The story structure follows a chronological recounting of several police shootings, which many find clear and engaging at the outset. However, reviewers criticize the pivot toward a politicized narrative that overshadows the core incidents, leaving key questions unexplored. Pacing remains steady early on but stalls as the film prioritizes advocacy over investigative depth, producing a mixed sense of narrative coherence.

Sensory Experience

Sensory elements such as sound design and visual style receive praise for their immersive quality, with reviewers noting crisp audio of police confrontations and striking cityscape shots. The documentary’s soundtrack supports tension without overwhelming the content. Nonetheless, occasional abrupt cuts and repetitive footage diminish the overall sensory polish, keeping the experience solid but not exceptional.

Rewatch Factor

Rewatch value is limited, as many viewers feel the documentary’s bias and incomplete investigation reduce its appeal for subsequent viewing. Some recommend it for its exposé of systemic issues, yet others advise seeking more balanced sources. The film’s strong initial impact fades when repeated, leading to a modest likelihood of repeat engagement.