An impactful win for ‘Zurawski v Texas’ at the Hamptons Film Festival
Groundbreaking documentary claims the Artemis Rising Foundation Award for Social Impact
A powerful narrative
‘Zurawski v Texas,’ a riveting documentary directed by Maisie Crow and Abbie Perrault, has been awarded the inaugural Artemis Rising Foundation Award for Social Impact at the Hamptons International Film Festival. This prestigious award celebrates a film that not only transforms cultural perspectives but also dares to challenge conventional norms.
The story behind ‘Zurawski v Texas’
Executive produced by prominent figures like Hillary Clinton, Chelsea Clinton, and Jennifer Lawrence, the film delves into the gripping journey of a group of women who, in 2023, took a bold stand against the state of Texas. Denied abortions despite facing severe pregnancy health risks, these women united to sue the state, sparking a national conversation on reproductive rights.
This 98-minute documentary premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in September and has been earning plaudits ever since. Awarded with a $15,000 cash prize, Crow and Perrault have the freedom to further their cause as they see fit.
Ambitious goals and heartfelt aspirations
In a joint statement, Crow and Perrault emphasized their mission:
“Our hope for this film has always been to reach as wide an audience as possible to educate, challenge, and inspire viewers through our film participants’ vulnerability and strength. This award will allow us to continue sparking conversation about women and families’ access to care.”
Spotlight on social justice issues
The Artemis Rising Foundation, led by its visionary founder and CEO, Regina K. Scully, has been a pioneer in championing stories that tackle critical social justice issues. From addressing gender bias and trauma to discussing mental health, addiction, and women’s empowerment, the foundation’s impact has been profound. Scully’s impressive portfolio includes groundbreaking documentaries like ‘Won’t You Be My Neighbor,’ ‘Allen v. Farrow,’ ‘The Invisible War,’ and the Oscar-nominated ’To Kill A Tiger.’
“We are proud to award ‘Zurawski v Texas’ with this year’s Artemis Rising Award,” Scully stated. “The impending election has sparked greater conversations and fierce compassion around women’s reproductive rights. This film sheds light on the dangerous realities of these issues and has the true capacity to enact change in this country.”
Extending the conversation
The significance of ’Zurawski v Texas’ extends beyond film festivals. On September 24, in Austin, Texas, dating app Bumble funded an impact screening series featuring the documentary, further amplifying its reach. Additionally, Bumble contributed to the documentary’s budget, underscoring its commitment to supporting crucial social issues.
A call for bipartisan support
The documentary has received critical acclaim for its nuanced take on abortion access. It argues that this issue transcends political divides and should not be viewed solely through a partisan lens. As a notable critic pointed out, “‘Zurawski v Texas’ wisely argues that abortion access—currently supported by Democrats and denied by the Republican Party—shouldn’t be a left or right issue, but a bipartisan matter.”
A continued journey
After its successful screening at the Hamptons International Film Festival on October 5, anticipation for wider distribution of ‘Zurawski v Texas’ continues to grow. The festival concluded on Monday, leaving an indelible mark on its attendees.
This powerful documentary is set to expand its audience and reinforce its message, inspiring further conversations and actions surrounding reproductive rights and women’s health care access.
For those interested in impactful storytelling and championing social justice, ‘Zurawski v Texas’ is a must-watch.
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