BREAKING: HBO Max just released a powerful new documentary titled Dear Ms.: A Revolution in Print, chronicling the groundbreaking origins of Ms. magazine and its monumental impact on women’s rights. The film, which debuted on October 25, 2023, reveals how the magazine, founded by journalist and feminist icon Gloria Steinem in January 1972, became a vital platform for discussing issues affecting women that had long been silenced.
In a time when women’s voices were largely absent from mainstream media, Ms. magazine emerged as a revolutionary outlet, tackling critical subjects from abortion to domestic violence. The documentary, structured in three compelling parts, features insights from directors Salima Koroma, Alice Gu, and Cecilia Aldarondo, each exploring the magazine’s enduring legacy and its role in shaping the feminist movement.
NEW INSIGHTS: The first segment, “A Magazine for All Women,” highlights the challenges and triumphs faced by Steinem and her co-founders, Letty Cottin Pogrebin and Pat Carbine, as they launched the magazine amidst skepticism and backlash. Steinem reflects on how many of the issues that Ms. tackled, such as women’s health and LGBTQIA+ rights, were rarely discussed openly at the time.
The film showcases the first issue, adorned with the emblematic image of the Hindu goddess Kali, which included provocative articles on marriage, race, and women’s rights. Critics initially dismissed the magazine, but its rapid sell-out demonstrated the overwhelming demand for such content.
Part two, “Ms.: A Portable Friend,” delves into the magazine’s influence on public discourse and legislation related to women’s rights. It features testimonials from readers who described feeling empowered and validated by the magazine’s coverage. Cottin Pogrebin states, “We were taking power away from people who thought they were born into it,” underscoring the magazine’s role in challenging societal norms.
The final segment, “No Comment,” confronts the contentious debates surrounding pornography and censorship. Despite criticism, Ms. magazine maintained its commitment to exploring complex issues, allowing diverse perspectives within the feminist movement to emerge.
IMMEDIATE RELEVANCE: This documentary is not just a retrospective; it offers critical lessons about the evolution of women’s rights and the ongoing struggles for equality. The conversations initiated by Ms. magazine remain relevant today, reminding audiences that the fight for women’s rights is far from over.
VIEWING DETAILS: Dear Ms.: A Revolution in Print is available to stream now on HBO Max. This urgent documentary serves as both a celebration of the magazine’s contributions and a vital critique of its shortcomings, particularly regarding representation and intersectionality.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: As discussions surrounding women’s rights continue to intensify globally, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the historical context and ongoing challenges. Prepare for a deep dive into the magazine that changed the narrative for women everywhere.
Don’t miss this chance to explore the powerful legacy of Ms. magazine—stream it NOW and join the conversation!
