Notes from the Field (2018 TV Movie) User Reviews

Anna's moment to shine bright

[jrneptune · 6/10 · 3 March 2018]

Written by and starring Anna Deavere Smith, who wrote also wrote and starred in the Off Broadway New York Play, which the movie is adapted from. Anna is usually a supporting actor on film but a very accomplished actress on stage.

Although the focus is about the 17 presentations discussing racism, inequality, the justice system, the prison system, and a whole lot more I really felt it was more about Anna getting the chance to show her amazing range and it begs the question why hasn't she had the chance for a lead role in a great move before.

I would bet we will be seeing more of her in bigger roles soon.

Flawless

[mssusanmarie · 10/10 · 7 March 2018]

Thank God for Anna Deavere Smith. Her work should be seen by everyone everywhere. From my lips to God's ears, amen.

Incredible acting

[ellenmathewson · 10/10 · 25 February 2018]

If this actor doesn't receive many awards next season, I might take to staging a protest in the streets.

Very Problematic

[Kaptain_Bluddflagg · 2/10 · 16 March 2018]

This is nothing more than the cynical attempt of a D-list actress to profit from various social issues. If it wasn't a one person show I would take it seriously, and might even believe that the intentions behind it were sincere, but as it is I think this was done to bolster Anna Deavere Smith's brand rather than out of a genuine desire to affect a positive change, or to bring awareness to issues.There are SO MANY talented artists who could have made a meaningful contribution through this as well, that it honestly reeks of narcissistic self-indulgence on the part of Smith to perform it solo.

Does it matter that the data completely refutes Smiths claims?

[random-70778 · 13 November 2021]

In fact the data show stronger policing, and longer sentences for criminals, results in more opportunity, and more class mobility for people in violent and impoverished urban neighborhoods. The data also confirm that crime, with minority victims, INCREASES with any reduction in policing and arrest/imprisonment rates of criminals from those neighborhoods.

As far as Freddy Gray, this film was made before all the police were acquitted of the ridiculous charges -- and acquitted by juries that were mostly African American.

If you want respect, show respect

[joelmc-88670 · 2/10 · 17 February 2020]

I was disturbed by the use of the term "paddy wagon" throughout the film, particularly in the recounting of Freddie Gray's ordeal. This term is very derogatory to people of Irish descent and should not be used EVER. I think the actor thought it meant the police vehicle was "padded." A very ignorant assumption. Do your homework and show some respect for other cultures!