13th -

Premise:
“13th” is a hard-hitting documentary film directed by Ava DuVernay, which scrutinizes the 13th Amendment of the United States Constitution. Rather than abolishing slavery entirely, the film argues that the amendment allowed for a form of enslavement to persist through the prison-industrial complex. Through archival footage and interviews with scholars, activists, and politicians, “13th” delves into the complex relationship between race and mass incarceration in the United States.

Main Central Character:
While “13th” doesn’t feature characters in the traditional sense, it does showcase a variety of influential figures who speak on the issue:

Ava DuVernay (Director) – The creative force behind the documentary
Various scholars, activists, and politicians offer their insights and expertise throughout the film.

Themes:
The documentary tackles themes of systemic racism, mass incarceration, social injustice, and the manipulation of constitutional law for oppressive purposes. It confronts audiences with the unsettling reality of how racial discrimination has mutated over time, finding new mechanisms of perpetuation, particularly through the American legal system.

Critical Consensus Rating: 5/5
“13th” has garnered widespread critical acclaim for its insightful analysis, compelling arguments, and impactful storytelling. Critics praise the documentary for shedding light on an often-overlooked aspect of American history and its ongoing impact. The film does not hold back in its critique, forcing audiences to confront uncomfortable truths, a feature that contributes to its high rating.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: TV-MA
The documentary is rated TV-MA for its mature themes and explicit discussions related to racial injustice and the prison system. It’s intended for mature audiences and is not suitable for children under 17.

Broadcast Information:
“13th” was originally released on Netflix on October 7, 2016.

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