Documentary 'What Killed Michael Brown?' Sparks Debate, Faces Initial Amazon Rejection

Filmmaker Eli Steele recently urged Matt Van Swol via social media to view his documentary, "What Killed Michael Brown?", co-created with his father, conservative author Shelby Steele. The tweet, which called for "the whole truth about Michael Brown," highlights the film's intent to offer an alternative perspective on the 2014 fatal shooting in Ferguson, Missouri. Released in October 2020, the documentary quickly became a focal point in ongoing discussions about race, policing, and media narratives in the United States.

The film garnered significant attention not only for its content but also for its initial distribution struggles. Amazon initially rejected "What Killed Michael Brown?" from its streaming platform, a decision Eli Steele described as a "finality" with no appeal. This rejection occurred around the same time Amazon announced a $10 million donation to Black Lives Matter, leading the Steeles to suggest the platform was protecting a particular narrative on race. Eli Steele later stated Amazon claimed the rejection was an "autogenerated mistake" after public outcry and media coverage.

At the heart of the documentary is Shelby Steele's concept of "poetic truth," which he contrasts with factual reality concerning Michael Brown's death. The film challenges the widely publicized "hands up, don't shoot" narrative, presenting evidence that aligns with the Department of Justice's findings which largely exonerated Officer Darren Wilson. Steele argues that the "poetic truth" serves to reinforce a narrative of systemic racism and black victimization, often overshadowing factual accounts.

Beyond the immediate incident, "What Killed Michael Brown?" explores the broader implications of the Ferguson events, including the long-term devastation caused by riots and the subsequent "Ferguson effect" on policing. The Steeles contend that a focus on victimhood can hinder progress and advocate for self-help and personal agency within the Black community. The film features various voices, including community members and a former drug dealer who transformed his life, to illustrate these themes.

Despite the initial hurdles, "What Killed Michael Brown?" found distribution on platforms like Vimeo and its dedicated website, whatkilledmichaelbrown.com. The documentary continues to be a subject of discussion, offering a critical examination of how racial incidents are framed and understood in contemporary American society. Its release underscored the deep divisions in public discourse surrounding race and justice.