Attica
Attica

Attica

2021Movie117 minEnglish

Follows the largest prison uprising in US history, conducting dozens of new interviews with inmates, journalists, and other witnesses.

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Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes98%
Metacritic84/100
Google Users93%
Director: Stanley Nelson Jr.Genres: Documentary, History, Crime

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the 1971 Attica Prison uprising, one of the most infamous and violent prison revolts in American history. Through archival footage and interviews with survivors, perpetrators, and observers, it delves into the causes of the rebellion, the brutal demands of the state's response, and the devastating aftermath that continues to resonate today. The film examines the systemic issues of racism and injustice that fueled the inmates' desperation and the state's violent suppression.

Critical Reception

Attica was widely acclaimed by critics for its powerful and unflinching portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history. Reviewers praised Stanley Nelson Jr.'s masterful direction, the compelling use of archival material, and the emotional weight of the survivor testimonies. It was lauded as a vital historical document that sheds light on crucial issues of race, class, and state violence.

What Reviewers Say

  • A gripping and essential documentary that brings a crucial historical event to life with raw power.
  • Nelson expertly weaves together archival footage and interviews to create a deeply moving and informative experience.
  • The film powerfully highlights the enduring legacy of racial injustice and state brutality.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised "Attica" for its historical significance and compelling storytelling. Many found the documentary to be eye-opening and important, appreciating the inclusion of survivor accounts and the detailed examination of the events. The film is frequently described as impactful and thought-provoking.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Won the Peabody Award.

Fun Fact

The film incorporates over 1,200 pieces of archival material, including rarely seen footage shot by inmates and their families during and after the rebellion.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

This is a rather standard documentary telling of the revolt by prisoners of New York State's eponymous maximum security prison. Using a combination of newsreel archive footage and modern-day interviews, Stanley Nelson endeavours to explain ...