Belly of the Beast

This documentary follows the journey of a young woman and a radical lawyer as they uncover a series of illegal involuntary sterilizations occurring within California’s women’s prisons. Their investigation reveals a disturbing pattern of systemic neglect and abuse, including inadequate healthcare and coercive sterilizations, primarily affecting women of color. The film's narrative is shaped by extraordinary access to both currently and formerly incarcerated women, providing an unflinching look at their experiences.

Belly of the Beast is notable for its in-depth exploration of eugenics and reproductive injustice in the United States. The filmmakers dedicated over seven years to document this critical legal battle against the Department of Corrections, showcasing the resilience of those fighting for justice. As a collector, this documentary offers a poignant exploration of social issues that resonate deeply within current discussions on race and reproductive rights.