In 1969 a bankrupt Detroit pizzeria owner, Richard Davis, invented the modern-day bulletproof vest. To prove that it worked, he shot himself — point blank — 192 times. Davis then launched Second Chance, which ultimately moved to northern Michigan and became one of the largest body armor companies in the world. Charming and brash, Davis directed sensational marketing films, earning him celebrity status among police and gun owners across the country. But the death of a police officer wearing a Second Chance vest catalyzed Davis’ fall, and revealed a man full of contradictions cultivated over decades of reckless behavior. As questionable as he was captivating, Davis saved thousands of lives while endangering exponentially more. Oscar-nominated filmmaker Ramin Bahrani’s feature-length documentary debut lays bare the complexities of one man’s supposed virtue while speaking to the nature of power and impunity in America. Michigan premiere. 

AFTER THE FILM: The post-film programs at both screenings will include the producers of the film. The Friday screening will also include subjects Aaron Westrick and Clifford Washington and will be moderated by Free Press investigative reporter and editor Matt Dolan. Free Press executive editor Jim Schaefer will moderate the Saturday discussion.