Let the Fire Burn is a documentary film that chronicles the events leading up to and during the 1985 bombing of the MOVE organization's house in Philadelphia. The film uses archival footage, interviews, and a deposition recorded just days after the tragedy to offer a comprehensive and unbiased portrait of the conflict between MOVE and Philadelphia authorities.
The film takes the form of a found-footage documentary that eschews traditional talking heads in favor of live footage and footage from news broadcasts and court hearings. It begins with the formation of MOVE in the 1970s and details the group's confrontations with the police, culminating in the siege of their house in 1985.
The film examines the mindset of the MOVE members and their distrust of authority, as well as the reaction of the police and local government to their presence. It provides a detailed account of the 1978 MOVE siege, which resulted in the death of a police officer, and the construction of a fortified compound at Osage Avenue in West Philadelphia in the years that followed.
Let the Fire Burn pays tribute to the victims of the bombing, including the six adults and five children who perished in the fire that engulfed the MOVE house. It does not take sides or assign blame but rather presents an account of the tragedy from multiple perspectives. The film is a haunting and compelling tribute to the brave people who fought for themselves and their beliefs and a chilling reminder of how quickly things can spiral out of control.
