The MRE Tug is The longest Tug of War over water in the world. The event is staged between the Maritime Republic of Eastport (The MRE) and Downtown Annapolis and features a 1700’ rope, over 350 tuggers, and more than 2,500 spectators. The Tug transforms Downtown Annapolis and Eastport into a festival-like atmosphere that includes live music, food vendors, cheering crowds, and all sorts of local color. The Tug draws on the rivalry between Eastport and the City of Annapolis, with civic pride on both sides allowing this zany event to improve more than community morale. The MRE has raised more than $275,000 for local charities over the past thirteen years. Read more about the Tug...
The Short:
Profiles the annual tug of war between the city of Annapolis and "breakaway micro nation" Maritime Republic of Eastport.
The Long:
In 1997 the Spa Creek bridge in Annapolis, MD was shut down for repairs. This was the main connection to the city for the neighborhood of Eastport. Residents worried that this would negatively effect their local economy and businesses. In response, a group formed to found the 'Maritime Republic of Eastport'. They 'officially' seceded from Annapolis and the U.S and can be found in the book of micro nations.
In 1998 the MRE held a tug of war across Spa Creek to pit Eastport versus Annapolis. This is purportedly the largest tug of war across a body of water in the world, although the Guinness Book of World Records doesn't recognize tug of wars due to their danger.
Slaughter Across The Water picks up during the 12th annual tug of war. Founding members, residents, and visitors tell the people's history of the MRE and the tug. Embedded coverage of 'patriotic' events include the annual Declaration of War march on City Hall, Black Ops, and the tug of war itself.
Slaughter Across The Water tells the story of the people of the MRE who are 'still revolting' 12 years after their founding.
Filmed with Canon HV20/30.
Edited in FCP 7.
Graded in Color.
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