Logo What's After the Movie

Our Towns 2021

This documentary explores the inspiring stories of small cities and towns across the United States, following the observations from James and Deborah Fallows' book. Academy Award-nominated filmmakers Steven Ascher and Jeanne Jordan highlight the innovative civic and economic initiatives undertaken by these communities. The film reveals how shared visions and local efforts can lead to remarkable transformations, offering hope and a path toward a more prosperous future for these American towns.

This documentary explores the inspiring stories of small cities and towns across the United States, following the observations from James and Deborah Fallows' book. Academy Award-nominated filmmakers Steven Ascher and Jeanne Jordan highlight the innovative civic and economic initiatives undertaken by these communities. The film reveals how shared visions and local efforts can lead to remarkable transformations, offering hope and a path toward a more prosperous future for these American towns.

Does Our Towns have end credit scenes?

No!

Our Towns does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Our Towns

Explore the complete cast of Our Towns, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for Our Towns

See how Our Towns is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Our Towns stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

70

Our Towns offers an affirming portrait of resilient small‑town America, underscored by sincere storytelling and competent visual work. Critics note the film’s earnest inquiry and uplifting tone, while some point to uneven editing and an overreliance on stylized aerial footage. Viewers appreciate the documentary’s educational value and the human focus, though the fragmented narrative can dilute impact. Overall, the film delivers a hopeful, though imperfect, look at community perseverance.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for Our Towns

68
Echo Score

Art & Craft

In terms of direction and visual craftsmanship, the documentary is praised for solid cinematography and a polished production feel. Several reviewers highlight the well‑executed shots and overall aesthetic quality. Conversely, criticism targets the heavy use of drone footage and an oversaturated palette that can feel commercial. The editing is seen as uneven, contributing to a mixed assessment of the film’s artistic execution.

72
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character and emotional resonance, the film succeeds in presenting authentic community voices and fostering empathy. Positive remarks focus on the genuine portrayals of citizens striving for renewal and the documentary’s sincere tone. Some viewers, however, note a lack of deeper emotional immersion due to limited screen time for individual stories. Overall, the character work leans toward a nuanced and affecting presentation.

65
Echo Score

Story & Flow

The narrative structure receives mixed feedback, with praise for the documentary’s clear premise and informative scope across eight towns. Critics acknowledge the engaging premise but point out pacing issues and a fragmented storyline that can hinder coherence. The absence of a unifying thread is cited as a weakness, while the overall theme of community revival remains compelling. Consequently, the story aspect lands in a moderate range.

66
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

Sensory experience is highlighted by commendations of the film’s clean visuals and effective soundtrack that supports the uplifting mood. Reviewers admire the well‑produced footage, yet some express disapproval of repetitive aerial sequences and an over‑styled color scheme. Sound design is not heavily discussed, suggesting it meets functional expectations without standing out. These factors combine to produce a modestly positive sensory rating.

70
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

Rewatch value is generally positive, with many viewers finding the documentary informative and inspiring, suitable for repeat viewings to absorb its community lessons. The film’s educational angle and hopeful narrative encourage revisiting. Nonetheless, a subset of audience members criticize its fragmented execution, which may lower repeat appeal for some. The balance of uplifting content and occasional structural flaws yields a solid rewatch factor.

Rotten Tomatoes
review

89%

TOMATOMETER

review

50%

User Score

IMDb

6.5 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

53

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.3

Movie Insider

3.80/5

From 41 fan ratings

It appears Our Towns does not have a summary available yet. Please consider requesting one.

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Our Towns

See more

Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Our Towns. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Our Towns (2021): Official Trailer | HBO

Our Towns Other Names and Titles

Explore the various alternative titles, translations, and other names used for Our Towns across different regions and languages. Understand how the film is marketed and recognized worldwide.


Mūsu pilsētas Városaink: Utazás Amerika szívébe העיירות שלנו: מסע אל ליבה של אמריקה Our Towns - Uma Viagem ao Coração dos EUA 小镇生活 Nasze miasta: Podróż do serca Ameryki Наші міста Our Towns: Un Viaje Al Corazón De Los EUA สรรค์สร้างชุมชนก้าวหน้า

© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.