V.I.D.E.O.S.: Cocaine Cowboys

Very Interesting Documentary Everyone Ought to See is a series of blogs that educate the reader about documentaries that not only peak this writer's interest but will make one think about the life that they live and the lives of the rest of the world's people.

This documentary was one of the very first ones that I saw when I got into Netflix.  When I first read a summary about it, I was like "eh, this could be either really boring or might just peak my curiosity".  I wasn't expecting anything really big.

I was completely blown away.

This is THE DRUG & VIOLENCE documentary to see!  If you ever want to know why Miami is the way it is, or the history behind why it was the most violent city in America during the late 70's early 80's, or even why Scarface or Miami Vice, or any of that allure exists, watch this documentary.

One of the best things about the movie is the transitioning through the video footage, along with the interviews from the detectives, reporters, witnesses, and even the murderers within Miami during those times.  There is no narration from the director, but the stories just intertwine so perfectly.

The story is based on the real life murders, crimes, and acts of violence that was happening while Cocaine was being one of the biggest commodities in America.  We get introduced to how Cocaine came in through America without anyone noticing.  We learn how the dealers and operators made their bones.  And we also learn how one of the most powerful drug lords, Griselda Blanco(above), flooded the streets of Miami with the blood of so many men and women and ruled over the American Cocaine market.

The people being interviewed that aren't a reporter or a police officer are the actual criminals that were released from turning themselves in or making a deal with law enforcement.  The stories are fascinating and some of the details about one character, Rivi, are especially terrifying.  Here's a quick look at Rivi.

I cannot recommend this movie enough.  It's a story of rags to riches to rags.  It's a riveting documentary that will not disappoint!  Hope you get a chance to watch it sometime.