Parents' Guide to The Friendliest Town

Movie NR 2019 77 minutes
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Common Sense Media Review

Sabrina McFarland By Sabrina McFarland , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 14+

Timely docu about trailblazing Black police chief; language.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 14+?

Any Positive Content?

  • The Friendliest Town Movie: Scene 1
  • The Friendliest Town Movie: Scene 2
  • The Friendliest Town Movie: Scene 3

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What's the Story?

When Kelvin Sewell is named police chief in 2011, he makes history. Sewell becomes the first African American selected for the position in Pocomoke City, Maryland. He soon introduces a new method of law enforcement. Sewell and his officers park their patrol cars. Then, the team walks the streets to get to better know the city's citizens. Their tactics lead to a lower crime rate, no homicides, and praise from residents. But in 2015, Sewell is terminated from his job without explanation. An African American council member describes the community as "a small town and everybody knows everybody, but there are some underlying racial problems here." Lawsuits are launched, along with allegations of racism, misconduct, and workplace harassment.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

Director and investigative reporter Stephen Janis produces a compelling portrait of African American police chief Kelvin Sewell, who maintains his courage in the face of adversity. One of the film's most difficult scenes to watch is an older African American man speaking about the segregationist rules of a local theater. He remembers that "Blacks were upstairs and the Whites were downstairs." He also recalls that African Americans "had to be off the streets at a certain time," otherwise "the police would get you." The history of Pocomoke City's past and Sewell's progressive steps to make a difference in the community offer parents and teens an opportunity to discuss the issue of race in a period now striving for social change.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the teamwork of Police Chief Kelvin Sewell in The Friendliest Town. How does he also demonstrate compassion, courage, and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?

  • In what ways does the movie help or hurt Sewell's reputation? How will Sewell's life as a trailblazer be remembered in Pocomoke City history?

  • What makes Sewell a role model? What work and social pressures may a Black police officer face?

  • Why is there debate over use of the "N" word? What is the origin of the term?

  • How important is the support of Sewell by Citizens for a Better Pocomoke after his job loss? How can lending a helping hand impact someone?

Movie Details

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