WSJ Opinion Documentary: "Get the Jew": The Crown Heights Riot Revisited

This documentary sheds light on the events surrounding the worst antisemitic riot in American history. The film details the chaos that erupted in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, following an incident where a Hasidic man accidentally killed a young black child. It highlights the resulting violence against the Jewish community, including the burning of stores and police vehicles, and the tragic death of a Hasidic man.

Featuring interviews with notable figures such as Rev. Al Sharpton and then-Deputy Police Chief Ray Kelly, the documentary provides a firsthand account of the chaos and the societal tensions of that time. The film, produced by The Wall Street Journal, emphasizes the media's downplaying of the antisemitism that fueled the violence, making it a significant work for understanding past and present issues surrounding antisemitism.

In light of the current wave of antisemitism, this documentary offers a timely reflection on these historical events, reaffirming their relevance in today's societal context. Collectors interested in documentaries that tackle complex social issues may find this film particularly insightful.