White Boy

In the gripping 2017 documentary White Boy, viewers are introduced to the bewildering story of Richard Wershe Jr., a teenager who became a notorious figure in the drug scene of 1980s Detroit. Known colloquially as White Boy Rick, Wershe's journey is both fascinating and tragic, as he transitioned from a high school kid to a key player in a major inner-city drug operation—a striking anomaly in a world dominated by older, more seasoned criminals. The film intricately weaves together interviews with gangsters, law enforcement, and journalists, all of whom offer their perspectives on Wershe's life and the systemic failures that have left him incarcerated for decades, even as the reasons for his continued imprisonment become increasingly convoluted.

White Boy doesn't just recount the sensational aspects of Wershe's life; it delves deep into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of justice in America. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are compelled to question the morality of a system that has both exploited Rick's youth and trapped him in a cycle of crime and punishment. The characters surrounding him—including hit men and federal agents—paint a vivid picture of a city grappling with the consequences of its own choices, while Wershe's story serves as a haunting reflection on the price of survival in a world where innocence is often overshadowed by ruthless ambition. This documentary is a must-watch for those intrigued by true crime stories that challenge the viewer’s understanding of right and wrong, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the credits roll.