Life of Crime, 1984-2020 (HBO)

About "Life of Crime, 1984-2020 (HBO)"

"Life of Crime, 1984-2020" is the final installment in Jon Alpert’s compelling documentary trilogy that painfully illustrates the harrowing journey of three friends from Newark, NJ whose lives have been irreparably damaged by the tyranny of addiction. The film, rich with raw emotions and stirring truths, encapsulates the struggle and pain that addiction inflicts upon individuals and their families. Tracing the lives of the main characters over the span of 35 years, it poignantly reflects the brutal realities of chronic addiction and how it spirals people's lives into chaos.

Making / Production

Renowned filmmaker Jon Alpert has been notable for his immersive and out-there style of filmmaking. The production process of "Life of Crime, 1984–2020," attests to his commitment to truth and authenticity. Venturing into the dangerous neighborhoods of Newark, NJ and weaving an intricate narrative from real life characters and their experiences with addiction, Alpert and his team truly pushed the boundaries of documentary filmmaking.

Actors

• Rob & Freddy Rowshon: As the central figures, their tragic lives are the primary focus of the film. Through intimate archival footage and deeply personal interviews, they embody the perils of addiction.
• Local Residences: The local residents were filmed not as actors, but as themselves, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Director Jon Alpert is a 15-time national Emmy award winner and two-time Academy Award nominee.
• The film was shot over a span of 35 years, making it a quarter-century long production.

Music, Soundtrack

• The film skillfully uses music and soundtrack as a narrative tool to create an intense and immersive cinematic experience, although specific songs are not highlighted nor marketed as a central part of the film's appeal.