Leith plays out with such drama that you may be surprised that this is a true story. Opening with a warm introduction to a particularly rural community (population 24) under a menacing score that rather heavily-handed alerts the viewer that all is not well in the North Dakota town of Leith.

I was amazed with the access these filmmakers had. They not only were in the homes of the scared and/or angry citizens, but also up close and personal with the cause of their concern. In one case, this documentary sports cell phone video from the supremacist's right-hand man's wife's phone. Also included is court room footage with audio that sounds like it came straight from the court's microphones.

Not a dull moment, the documentary builds as if fiction, leading me to wonder if the filmmakers toyed a little too much with the story as to manipulate. But even so, it's undeniable that the elements are all here. It's an engaging documentary that stirs deep emotion, while challenging all involved (viewers too) to use their heads.

-- Books by Author/Illustrator Ross Anthony --