Reversing Roe

Insightful examination of America's abortion debate

Watch on Netflix
About Reversing Roe

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 1h 39m

Cast
Ricki Stern, Annie Sundberg

About Reversing Roe

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About

Reversing Roe is a political documentary film released in 2018. The film explores the controversial topic of abortion in the United States and the ongoing battle over the landmark Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade. Directed by Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg, the documentary provides an in-depth examination of the history, impact, and current state of abortion rights in America. The film delves into the origins of the abortion debate, tracing its roots back to the early years of the women's rights movement. It highlights the pivotal role of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court case that legalized abortion nationwide, and examines the subsequent legal and political challenges faced by advocates on both sides of the issue. Through interviews with key figures, including activists, lawmakers, and medical professionals, the film sheds light on the complex and deeply divisive nature of the abortion debate. Reversing Roe also explores the strategies and tactics employed by anti-abortion activists to chip away at reproductive rights, such as targeted regulation of abortion providers (TRAP) laws and the appointment of conservative justices to the Supreme Court. By examining the historical and current landscape of the abortion debate, the film provides a comprehensive overview of the complexities at play and the potential consequences of reversing Roe v. Wade.

Making / Production

Reversing Roe showcases a meticulous and thorough approach in its production. Directors Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg extensively researched the topic of abortion and interviewed a wide range of individuals from different perspectives to present a balanced and comprehensive view of the issue. The film features in-depth interviews with activists, politicians, legal experts, and patients whose personal experiences underscore the impact of abortion laws. The documentary skillfully incorporates archival footage, news clips, and courtroom recordings to provide historical context and highlight key moments and arguments in the abortion debate. The filmmakers also employ effective storytelling techniques, presenting the information in a clear and engaging manner that keeps viewers invested in the subject matter.

Actors

- Not applicable (as Reversing Roe is a documentary and does not feature fictional characters or actors).

Trivia / Interesting Facts

- Reversing Roe was released on Netflix on September 13, 2018, reaching a wide audience and sparking renewed discussions on abortion rights. - The documentary features interviews with prominent figures on both sides of the abortion debate, including journalists, activists, and politicians such as Gloria Steinem, Jill Lepore, and Wendy Davis. - Directors Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg previously collaborated on other acclaimed documentaries, including The Devil Came on Horseback and The Trials of Darryl Hunt.

Awards

- Reversing Roe received critical acclaim and was nominated for Outstanding Politics and Government Documentary at the News & Documentary Emmy Awards in 2019.

Quotes

- "Abortion is the one issue that embodies every other aspect of women's inequality." - Gloria Steinem - "What happens when women don't have access to safe and legal abortion? We lose our lives, our country, and our children." - Wendy Davis - "Abortion rights are not something anyone should take for granted." - Jill Lepore

Music / Soundtrack

- The documentary Reversing Roe features a compelling and poignant soundtrack that enhances the emotional impact of the film. The music selection includes both original compositions and licensed tracks, carefully chosen to complement the narrative and evoke the range of emotions surrounding the abortion debate. While the soundtrack has not been commercially released, it effectively supports the storytelling and creates a powerful atmosphere throughout the documentary.