Watch Break the Chain

Break the Chain is a powerful and moving documentary that explores the issue of human trafficking and modern-day slavery in a variety of contexts. The film is directed by Laura E. Swanson and produced by Kirk Mason, and it takes a multi-faceted approach to the subject matter, incorporating interviews with survivors, advocates, and law enforcement officials as well as featuring on-the-ground footage from around the world.

One of the key strengths of Break the Chain is its focus on individual stories of exploitation and trafficking, which give a human face to the statistics and data surrounding this issue. Throughout the film, we hear from survivors who have been forced into labor or sex work, as well as family members and community members who have been affected by this form of violence. These stories are often difficult to hear, as they reveal the depths of inhumanity that we are capable of, but they are also incredibly inspiring, as they show the resilience and courage of those who have overcome such traumas.

The film also delves into the various factors that contribute to human trafficking, such as poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality. We hear from experts who explain how these issues create the conditions for exploitation, and we see examples of how organizations and individuals are working to address them. One particularly moving section of the film shows an anti-trafficking group in India that is working to empower rural women by training them in skills such as tailoring and embroidery. By giving these women an alternative to exploitative labor, the group is working to prevent trafficking before it even starts.

Another strength of Break the Chain is its focus on the role of law enforcement in combatting human trafficking. We hear from detectives, special agents, and prosecutors who are dedicated to rescuing victims and bringing perpetrators to justice. These officials provide an important counterpoint to some of the more despairing stories in the film, showing that progress is being made and that there are people who are fighting tirelessly to end this form of violence.

Throughout the film, we also see examples of how art and creative expression can be used to raise awareness about human trafficking. We see survivors who have turned to poetry or painting as a way of processing their experiences, as well as artists who are using their platforms to amplify the voices of survivors and advocate for change. In one powerful moment towards the end of the film, a group of survivors perform a dance piece that represents their journey from exploitation to empowerment. The performance is both beautiful and heart-wrenching, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

Overall, Break the Chain is a deeply affecting film that shines a light on an issue that is often overlooked or ignored. By highlighting the voices of survivors and experts, and by showing examples of successful interventions at various levels, the film offers hope and inspiration in the face of a difficult and complex problem. It is a film that everyone should see, as it reminds us of our shared humanity and our responsibility to work towards a world free from exploitation and violence.

Break the Chain is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 64 hours.