Though he is still unknown to many, Brett Morgen is one filmmaker who has made an indelible mark on cinema with his latest film, Chicago 10. This risk-taking visionary first exploded onto the film scene with his unique, dynamic documentary film about producer Robert Evans, The Kid Stays in the Picture. In Chicago 10, Morgen carries on his unique vision to an even more accomplished and grand scale, mixing several genres together into one film.

In the film, seven protesters and one activist, who along with their two defense attorneys were dubbed the “Chicago 10,” are put on trial for conspiracy to incite riot at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Through rapid-fire editing, a soundtrack of current rock songs and genre-bending visuals, Morgen tells two linear storylines at once. The first expertly shows a bleak time period in American history during which the police force and judicial system frequently abused authority, which Morgen recreated through vibrant animation voiced by a number of well-known actors, including Hank Azaria, Nick Nolte and Mark Ruffalo. The second story, which follows the week of protests during the convention, is told through a combination of animation and documentary footage.

Technically, this film is almost perfect. The editing style excellently brings to life a history that is almost entirely forgotten with a freshness and newness rarely seen. The acting is solid, and Morgen successfully juggles all the different storylines and film formats.

However, the film demands to be seen not only for its technical achievement, but also because it delves into issues that are just as relevant today as they were then. While this film does explore a historically dark past of America and will not be appreciated by all viewers, it is a film every younger adult should see.

Chicago 10 is Rated R for language and brief sexual images.

Matt Groves can be reached at [email protected]