Blowin' Up

Blowin' Up is an enlightening and thought-provoking documentary film directed by Stephanie Wang-Breal, which premiered in 2018 at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film provides an eye-opening exploration of the complexities surrounding human trafficking and prostitution, and the justice system's role in these issues. The movie stars Kim Affronti, Eliza Hook, and Susan Liu, who each play pivotal roles in a narrative that strays from traditional documentaries and instead presents real-life drama in an unconventional, heart-tugging take.

Based in Queens, New York, Blowin' Up takes its viewers into the special Queens Human Trafficking Intervention Court. This unique court aims to transition from the norm of criminalizing and punishing sex workers to supporting and providing help to these individuals. At the center of the film's cast is Judge Toko Serita, who, along with a dedicated team including public defender Kim Affronti, tough-minded yet compassionate prosecutor Eliza Hook, and Asian Women's Center counselor Susan Liu, strives to change the system by viewing the defendants not as criminals but as victims in need of help.

Kim Affronti brings to life the role of a public defender with sheer brilliance. She displays an astounding balancing act between maintaining a professional persona and showing genuine empathy toward her clients. Eliza Hook, despite being a prosecutor, sheds the stereotypical 'tough prosecutor' image and exposes a softer side, showing deep compassion and understanding for the women she encounters. Susan Liu, in her role as counselor at the Asian Women's Center, brings a layer of comforting warmth and relentless patience, finding ways to support the women, whether it's translation assistance or escorting them to court.

Blowin' Up does not hold back from presenting the harrowing realities of human trafficking and the commercial sex industry. However, what sets it apart is the perspective from which it chooses to tell its story. The film carries its viewers through a myriad of emotions, right from the initial appearance of the defendants in court to the deliberations in Judge Serita's chambers, the passionate advocacies of the lawyers and counselors, and the ultimate fate of the women stuck in the system. It showcases a sense of uncertainty and turmoil, coupled with moments of humanity, empathy, and resilience in the face of adversity.

The film’s cinematic style is noteworthy. It uses a careful balance of observational, verite-style footage combined with personal interviews and character vignettes. This allows the audience not only to observe the court proceedings but also to delve deeper into the underlying issues and challenges faced by the frontline workers and the women they serve. The film uses subtle visual cues and poignant narratives to foster a connection between the viewers and the persons on screen, aptly portraying their trials, tribulations, and glimmers of hope.

Throughout the film is a highly powerful examination of various themes such as gender-based violence, victims’ rights, the justice system, and societal norms and prejudices. The title, "Blowin' Up, presents a crucial theme about breaking the conventional chains of the legal system and society while aiming to 'blow up' the stereotype and stigma associated with sex work and trafficking victims.

Perhaps one of the most significant strengths of Blowin' Up is its unflinching focus on reality. It does not sugarcoat or romanticize the stories or the work of the court. While there are moments of victory and progress within the film, it equally treats its viewers to the frustrating realities and struggles that come with trying to change a long-entrenched, complicated system.

Blowin’ Up is a compelling and highly recommended watch for those interested in social justice and systemic reform, women's rights, and human rights. It is an important piece of documentary filmmaking that beautifully highlights the unsung heroes fighting to shift the perspective away from the criminalization and towards the rehabilitation and support of the women on the unfortunate other side of the law who are often victims of their circumstances. The film significantly contributes to the ongoing conversation about the much-needed changes in the way the justice system and society approach and handle these sensitive cases.