Legacy

This documentary, which took five years in the making, is the amazing true story of the lives of a family from one of the worst Chicago housing projects.

Beginning with the shooting of the most promising of the young family members, 14-year-old Terrell, the film follows his cousin Nickole as she progresses through school while also following the changing lives of her mother, her aunt and her grandmother. It proves to be an extraordinary viewing experience as the family, who have survived for three generations on welfare, face up to their weaknesses and develop their own talents.

Nickole provides constant narration and reveals herself to be a sensitive and articulate choice, especially since she is also one of the driving forces in the family's changing fortunes.

For a film prepared to tackle, head on, such difficult subjects as murder, prostitution, unemployment, poverty and drug abuse this has a surprisingly upbeat feel.