Borderline: The Story of 8 Mile Road

Shown at the Detroit HIstorical Museum

Written and Produced by Gary Glaser and Dave Toorongian; Directed by Gary Glaser; Narrated by Kim Hunter

(30 minutes)

This 1997 Emmy Award winner captures the spirit and eccentricity of metro Detroit’s most provocative thoroughfare. No other road in Michigan evokes a response like the one you get when you mention 8 Mile. From adult entertainment venues and the neighborhood groups that battle them, to storefront preachers and the homeless people to which they minister, 8 Mile remains our area’s most notorious boundary. Part history, part pop culture, this film, like a ride down 8 Mile, is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Please note that this features some adult themes and colorful language, so parental discretion is advised. 

Thoughtful commentary from Jerry Herron, Director of American Studies, and Ronald Stephens; associate Professor of Communication (both from Wayne State University) provide context and analysis. The documentary also features an interview with Mr. Belvedere (his office was on 8 Mile) as well as clips from some of his classic commercials.