Black Hand Strawman: The History of Organized Crime in Kansas City

About This Movie

Black Hand Strawman offers a gritty dive into the murky waters of organized crime in Kansas City. The tone is dark, almost haunting, as it unravels the city’s history as a key player in heroin distribution during the 1930s and 40s. The pacing feels deliberate, allowing the viewer to absorb the complex web of Mafia influence over the Teamsters Union Local 41 from the 50s through the 80s. The film is distinctive not just for its subject matter but also for how it captures the atmosphere of that era—a blend of desperation and power. You get a real sense of the community, the shadows lurking in the alleys, and the impact on everyday life. It’s a raw look at corruption and control.

Gritty portrayal of Kansas City's crime sceneIn-depth look at Teamsters Union controlCaptures a unique historical perspective