Review: The Janes – A Gripping, Timely Story of Rebellion and Resilience

The Janes documentary by Tia Lessin and Emma Pildes

At a time when men control women’s bodily autonomy, The Janes offers a beacon of hope. 

The Janes is a powerful documentary that chronicles the courageous efforts of a group of women in 1960s Chicago who defied the law and societal expectations to provide safe, illegal abortions to women in need. Directed by Tia Lessin and Emma Pildes, the film sheds light on a pivotal chapter in the fight for reproductive rights, offering a compelling and often heart-wrenching look at the women who became the backbone of the underground network known as "The Janes."

Sheila Smith, Martha Scott, Diane Stevens and Judith Arcana were four of seven women arrested for performing illegal abortions in Chicago. 

The documentary presents an intimate portrait of these women, many of whom were ordinary individuals with no medical experience, but who felt compelled to act when the criminalization of abortion left thousands of women vulnerable. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with the women involved, and poignant re-enactments, The Janes tells a story of activism born out of necessity and a defiance that would lay the foundation for the future of reproductive justice.

One of the film's most striking features is the way it humanizes the often-overlooked aspect of this movement. The Janes were not just rebels—they were compassionate, thoughtful, and fiercely committed to ensuring women had access to safe, private healthcare. Their actions were not without risk; the stakes were high, and the women were willing to face legal consequences for their work. Through their bravery, the documentary highlights not only the courage of these women but also the immense dangers women faced in the absence of legal and safe abortion options.

The interviews are deeply moving, with many of the women reflecting on their experiences and the profound impact the work had on their own lives. The documentary also emphasizes the solidarity that formed within this underground network, with the women helping each other and creating a sense of community in the face of a dangerous and stigmatized cause.

In a time where reproductive rights are increasingly under threat, The Janes is an essential watch. The documentary not only offers a powerful look at the courageous women who fought for reproductive freedom in the 1960s but also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for bodily autonomy. It underscores the importance of understanding our history and the sacrifices made by those who stood up for women’s rights, making it a timely and vital film for anyone invested in preserving these freedoms today.