Fire in the Belly

Fire in the Belly by Lanny Larcinese explores the complex dynamics of a black militant, anarcho-primitivist, racial justice group called Project War. Founded by Jackie War (née John Knight), this group is viewed by some as a movement and by others as a cult. Project War differentiates itself from other black power movements by advocating for the sanctity of all life—meaning all animals, including vermin—and living in 'natural' ways, even eschewing clothing as unnatural.

The group's headquarters, infested with rats and roaches, sits in a solid, middle-class black neighbourhood. Loudspeakers blare the group's manifesto day and night, much to the discontent of surrounding residents. Jackie serves as the group's titular leader, while his operational commander and companion, Lucinda War (née Broadax), manages day-to-day operations.

The neighbourhood, increasingly frustrated by Project War, voices its concerns through block captain Benjamin "Jamin" Baker. These complaints push city authorities, including the License and Inspections (L&I) Department, to take notice. Matters worsen as War's weapon-carrying guards draw the attention of police and media. Back in 1978, a shootout between the cult and police resulted in an officer's death, leading to the imprisonment of five War members and the demolition of its headquarters. Jackie is now campaigning for their release, claiming the officer died from friendly fire.

By the early 1980s, War has relocated and fortified its new base, intensifying efforts to free the imprisoned members. Jackie exploits the city's racially sensitive stance left over from the '78 incident, even as police and neighbours grow increasingly fed up. Jamin Baker, unsuccessful in negotiating peace with Lucinda War, is further troubled when his adopted niece becomes enamoured with Project War.

Jamin attempts to address the issue through the system, seeking help from the L&I and district representative Don Slade. Learning the department's limitations, he is drawn into a plan devised by Slade and detective Dave Hemmings. Dave, whose gay lover was killed in the '78 shootout, seeks retribution against Jackie. Despite initial reluctance, Jamin provides intel on the cult's activities.

Authorities, though passive, observe as Project War's headquarters is fortified with steel and railroad ties. Jackie becomes more vocal in his demands for the members' release, exacerbating racial tensions and revealing administrative incompetence. The deaths of an Assistant District Attorney, a mob hitman, a drug dealer, and Jamin's niece—combined with War's growing militancy—push police to take decisive action.

The confrontation between Project War and Philadelphia police culminates dramatically. Police, led by Commissioner Frank Stenna, employ aggressive tactics reminiscent of the 1978 shootout. When a bomb dropped from a helicopter ignites a fire, the situation spirals out of control, resulting in the deaths of those trapped inside and the destruction of an entire block.