Montgomery's 'The People's Council' film premieres Nov. 15

A new documentary about how Montgomery came to be run by a mayor and city council premieres Sunday, Nov. 15, at the Capri Theatre. The film, The People’s Council, marks 50 years of the mayor-council form of government. Admission is free, but you must register.

The City of Montgomery announced the screening in a news release Monday.

When and where

• When: 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15
• Where: Capri Theatre, 1045 E. Fairview Ave.
• Cost: free
• Registration: required, through the city’s online sign-up form

What the film covers

The documentary starts after the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It follows the long push for wider civic participation and representation in the city, the city said.

At its center is the 1975 change to the mayor-council form of government. The city said that change reshaped how leadership was organized and how neighborhoods took part in local decisions.

The film draws on archival footage, personal accounts and interviews with past and present leaders. According to the city, it honors the organizers, advocates, elected officials and residents who worked for a more representative city government.

What happens at the premiere

People who attend will see the director’s cut of the film first. After the screening there is a community conversation about the film, the city’s history and the future of local leadership, the city said.

The release does not name the director or give the film’s running time.

What it means for you

• Sign up first. Seats need registration, even though the event is free.
• Plan for three hours. The event runs from 2 to 5 p.m., with the screening and a discussion.
• Want to know how City Hall works today? Our guide to who to call at City Hall lists the departments and how to reach them, and our history and landmarks guide covers the civil rights sites the film touches on.

More events this month are on our things to do page.