What:
Baltimore City HAKs is an astonishing film about the multifaceted underworld of illegal transportation systems in Baltimore City, Maryland. After seeing this film, the viewer will learn about the untold pact between citizens of the city where risking their lives in a complete stranger’s car is the norm to get to your next destination.

Who:
Baltimore City HAKs features the people and places of Baltimore City to illuminate and uncover the truths and misconceptions of the city’s underground culture of transportation. Native Washingtonian, Bernard Threatt was able to infiltrate a disenfranchised population to reveal a true but often not discussed culture. Witness the history of Baltimore through the eyes of many who have never left the “Charm City.” HAKs takes viewers on a wild ride filled with eclectic characters and crazy adventures.

Tagline:
When you have no other way to get from “Plan A” to “Plan B,” do what Baltimore does and catch a “HAK.”

When:
Production of Baltimore City HAKs began February of 2006 and ended in August of 2006.

Where:
Baltimore City HAKs was filmed throughout the north, south, east and west sides of Baltimore, MD.

Why:
Being a native of Washington, D.C., I was absolutely blown away when I saw Baltimoreans signaling for a HAK for the first time. When I finally found out Baltimoreans were actually getting into total stranger’s cars instead of a taxi, I wondered if these people were crazy? Baltimore is the kind of city that doesn’t sweat over a taxi cab driver that refuses to stop for patrons; they just simply create another way. I have seen on different occasions, patrons get out of cabs o catch a HAK because they’re cheaper. That sparked my curiosity to show the world why, in Baltimore, HAKs are better than cabs. After I graduated from Goucher College, I decided to stay in Baltimore with no car, leaving me with the options of the bus, light rail, cabs or HAKing. Of course, I chose HAKing. The car rides with complete strangers let to some of the best conversations I have ever had. Along with their amazing personalities, I realized I had to show the world what Baltimore is really all about.

Cast:

Bernard Threatt and the city of Baltimore, formerly known as the “City that Reads,” but now a place to “Get In On It.”