PacoimaStories: Land of Dreams

PacoimaStories is an epic documentary about the untold history of a small town in Los Angeles, whose incredible story defines what has become of the American dream. Written, directed and narrated by Crystal Jackson, whose family came to Pacoima in 1935, this feature film traces the town’s earliest history and incredible growth. After World War II, land developers in the 1950s lured African Americans to Pacoima by naming a housing tract after heavyweight boxer Joe Louis and this film tells of the huge successes, accomplishments and struggles of this Black community as drugs, gangs and guns hijacked the town in the 80s. Most importantly it tells how they fought to retake their homes by forging a new educational model for their children that has reshaped the entire city. Interviews with community residents, both old and young, give insight on the town’s history and its impact today. US Congressman Tony Cardenas, USC legend Anthony Davis and friends of Latino singer Ritchie Valens share stories of how culture and adversity made Pacoima a symbol of the ultimate American town. (Pan African Film Festival)