Cinema Politica Distribution is thrilled to announce its latest acquisition of DOPE IS DEATH by Montreal-based filmmaker Mia Donovan (Deprogrammed, 2015; Inside Lara Roxx, 2011).
DOPE IS DEATH has enlightened audiences across the world. It had its world premiere at True/False Film Festival in Columbia, Missouri, followed by a successful European premiere at CPH:DOX where it received a nomination for the F:ACT Award. It later had its Canadian premiere at Hot Docs International Documentary Festival in 2020, garnering critical acclaim as an “urgent and instructive” film to watch (Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter).
ABOUT THE FILM
DOPE IS DEATH combines community health and radical politics to document how Dr. Mutulu Shakur, along with fellow Black Panthers and the Young Lords opened the first acupuncture detoxification program in a racially divisive America in 1973. This form of radical harm reduction was a revolutionary act toward the government programs that transfixed the lives of black and brown communities throughout the South Bronx.
DOPE IS DEATH utilizes an abundant archive while giving us insight into how the acupuncture clinic rose to prominence and, despite funding challenges, still functions to this day. Some of those who benefited from the program became acupuncturists themselves. Dr. Mutulu’s legacy is cemented within this profound story of community healing and activism. (Amir George of True/False)
DOPE IS DEATH is now available in Canada for educational license, theatrical, and community screening booking. Click below to book the film now!
