Never Get Busted brilliantly chronicles the life of Barry Cooper, a former Texas narcotics officer turned advocate against police misconduct. This gripping docuseries not only exposes the flaws in law enforcement but also empowers drug users to navigate their rights, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice and the complexities of the drug war.
The Story So Far
In the heart of Texas, Barry Cooper once stood as a decorated narcotics officer, expertly navigating the ins and outs of drug enforcement. However, a transformative journey led him down a different path—one where he would expose the very misconduct he once enforced. Never Get Busted captures Cooper’s evolution from enforcer to advocate, revealing not just the personal stakes he faced, but also the broader implications of his work. The series unfolds against the backdrop of a society grappling with its relationship with drugs and law enforcement, making it a timely exploration of freedom, accountability, and the quest for justice.
A Look Behind the Scenes
As the docuseries premiered at Sundance’s episodic pilot showcase, it also marked the debut production for Erin Williams-Weir. In an exclusive interview, Williams-Weir shares the challenges and triumphs of bringing this compelling story to life:
Connecting with the Filmmaker
Williams-Weir’s journey began with a simple yet profound realization. After watching an interview with Cooper, she and her husband, director David Anthony Ngo, recognized the urgency of telling his story. “We couldn’t believe no one had told this story,” she recalls, sparking the idea for the documentary.
The Production Journey
The production process has been a marathon rather than a sprint, spanning over six years. Williams-Weir breaks it down into key phases: development, production, post-production, and distribution. She highlights the collaborative effort involved in securing financing, leveraging support from independent investors and government agencies in Australia, including Screen Australia and the South Australia Film Corporation.
Mentorship and Support
Reflecting on her growth as a producer, Williams-Weir credits industry veterans John Battsek and Chris Smith as pivotal mentors. Their guidance and collaborative spirit have helped shape her understanding of the industry.
Challenges Faced
The journey has not been without its hurdles. Williams-Weir recalls the early days when she and her husband financed the project themselves, juggling multiple jobs to keep their dream alive. “Our main subject was stuck in Australia during a global pandemic without any other finance in place yet,” she notes, underscoring the unpredictable nature of documentary filmmaking.
Pride in the Craft
Among her many accomplishments, Williams-Weir takes pride in the extensive research document she compiled over nine months. Spanning over 40 pages and 20,000 words, it served as a foundation for the series. Additionally, she meticulously reviewed 300 hours of personal archive footage, ensuring the story was authentically represented.
Unexpected Revelations
One of the biggest surprises for Williams-Weir was the length of the production process. “I didn’t anticipate this to be a six-year endeavor,” she admits, acknowledging the logistical and creative challenges that arose along the way.
The Future of Producing
As she looks to the future, Williams-Weir emphasizes the need for more sustainable practices in film production. “There’s an incredible amount of personal risk,” she states, advocating for more developmental opportunities to support new producers in the industry.
Conclusion
Never Get Busted is more than just a documentary; it’s a powerful statement on the complexities of law enforcement and the quest for justice. Through Barry Cooper’s journey and the dedication of Erin Williams-Weir and her team, the series shines a light on the importance of accountability and freedom in a world often clouded by stigma and fear. As viewers engage with Cooper’s story, they are invited to reflect on their own perceptions of law, order, and the fight for social justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main focus of Never Get Busted?
The series follows Barry Cooper, a former narcotics officer, as he exposes police misconduct and advocates for drug users’ rights.
2. Who produced Never Get Busted?
The docuseries is produced by Erin Williams-Weir, alongside a collaborative team including David Anthony Ngo.
3. How long did it take to produce the series?
The production spanned over six years, encompassing development, production, and post-production phases.
4. What challenges did the production team face?
Challenges included financing the project, navigating the pandemic, and the lengthy production timeline.
5. What is Erin Williams-Weir’s background?
Williams-Weir has a background in international sales and has a passion for captivating global stories.
6. How did the filmmakers connect with Barry Cooper?
The filmmakers were inspired by an interview with Cooper, prompting them to tell his story through a documentary.
7. What are the key themes in Never Get Busted?
Key themes include police accountability, the rights of drug users, and the societal impacts of drug enforcement.
8. Where can I watch Never Get Busted?
The series is available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and others.
9. What makes this docuseries unique?
Its unique approach lies in the personal narrative of a former officer who now advocates for those he once arrested, providing a rare perspective on the drug war.
10. What advice does Erin Williams-Weir have for new producers?
She advises new producers to celebrate small wins, respect their team, and stay true to their values throughout the production process.
Tags: Never Get Busted, Barry Cooper, documentary, police misconduct, drug rights, Sundance, Erin Williams-Weir, filmmaking, social justice