Welcome to POV .
I'm Pete Schwaba, host of
Wisconsin Public Television's Director's Cut .
There is a phrase in the world of prostitution
for when a woman leaves her pimp.
It's called "blowin' up,"
which is also the title of tonight's film.
In this film, we are introduced to a court in Queens, New York
that chooses to advocate for rather than bring to trial
women accused of prostitution.
The court encourages them to leave their life as sex workers
and dismisses the charges, contingent on the accused
completing a counseling program.
Equally as important, "Blowin' Up" also examines
the circumstances and pressures
that lead these vulnerable young women
to prostitution in the first place.
Director Stephanie Wang-Breal does a remarkable job
of gaining access to this court
and its energetic, inclusive culture
that gives viewers a look at the human side
of the justice system.
This is her third feature length documentary
and if there is a common theme in her films,
Wang-Breal says it is about
institutions and deconstructing them,
adding that she is fascinated by the human relationships
that are at the core of these institutions.
The Hollywood Reporter calls her latest effort
"A true Justice League of women in action."
"Blowin' Up" starts now on Wisconsin Public Television,
your home for independent film.