FANTASIA 2020: Class Action Park
FANTASIAFor nearly two decades, Action Parkthrilled guests with its insane and dangerous attractions that gave just as many injuries as they did smiles. Action Park has found a second life via the internet, where on a global scale, the almost unbelievable amount of bad ideas embraced by the park and visitors, are appreciated. Whereas various online videos have explored the history of the park, Class Action Park- streaming as part of the 2020 Fantasia International Film Festival - aspires to be the definitive version of the story, by providing a comprehensive look at the park through the eyes of its visitors.
With an extensive collection of footage and an effective use of animation, one of the film's biggest strengths is its ability to transport audiences back in time, bringing the park to life. It never feels like a dull narration set over a glorified slideshow; instead, Class Action Park makes a clear goal to capture the energy, and the true experience of trying the rides. While many of the pieces of media focus solely on the danger and tragedy,Class Action Park also captures the excitement and joy found in its premises, by youth looking for an escape. At the same time, the film in no way tries to create a false reality of the park being a morally pure adventure. It is very clear and open on its judgment for how the administration handled multiple events, ranging from not respecting labour laws to refusing to take proper precautions to prevent the death of innocent children.
This balance is found in the talking head segments of the film, which are what brings the film above most other pieces of media looking at the subject. Instead of simply narrating the details of the park, the film lets those who experienced it for themselves share their stories, with a natural conviction that can't be fictionalised. From employees talking about the working conditions, to previous guests explaining what the park meant to them as children, there is real honesty in these interviews that truly captures the social dynamics and spirit of the park, explaining why it lived for so long.
Where the film is a truly engaging exploration of the subject material, it also admittedly fails to find an acute conclusion to its story. Once the runtime ends, the film gives very little for the audience to take away from the film. Where this doesn't hurt the viewing experience of the film that much, it does fundamentally hold the film back from reaching the same highs as other documentaries from 2020, such as On the Record or Feels Good Man.
For those interested in the subject material, Class Action Park is absolutely worth checking out, and provides a legitimately great look at the park. It captures both the magic and terror the park brought to guests in a compelling manner, engaging the viewers, even if it doesn't leave much of a lasting impact on them.
