17 Blocks is a powerful documentary film that follows the Sanford family over the course of 20 years. The film begins with footage shot by the family in 1999 when they lived just 17 blocks away from the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C.
The Sanford family consists of Cheryl, her husband, and their four children, all of whom are struggling with addiction and poverty. Among them, Emmanuel, the eldest son, is the one who has a passion for film and documents their daily life on camera.
Over the years, Cheryl and her children face a series of struggles, including the deaths of two of her sons to gun violence. Emmanuel’s captivation of the family’s journey gives a raw and unfiltered take on their lives and portrays the potent effects that social and racial injustice have had on their lives.
As the Sanford family grapples with addiction and violence, Emmanuel’s camera captures all their emotional depth, and the movie moves from an important social message to a heart-wrenching tale of a family's endurance. Despite the challenges and loss, 17 Blocks shows how the Sanford family remains devoted to each other and mends the strained relationships between the family members.
Through this journey, the audience also explores the significance of structural inequality and racial injustice that necessitated the Sanfords' story. Making 17 Blocks—a true story of loss, love, and acceptance—what most accurately depicts the harsh reality of underprivileged communities and gives voice to those living amidst life-threatening adversities.