Oscar-Nominated ‘The Devil Is Busy’ Shines Light on Georgia Clinic After Dobbs
The documentary short 'The Devil Is Busy' highlights the struggles faced by a Georgia women's health clinic in the wake of the Dobbs decision, showcasing the efforts of its staff to support patients amidst increasing restrictions on reproductive rights.
'The Devil Is Busy' is an Oscar-nominated documentary short that provides an intimate look at a women's health clinic in Georgia, which operates under the constraints imposed by significantly restricted reproductive rights following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. This ruling has led to the closure of many clinics across various states, compelling patients to travel longer distances for essential care—an issue poignantly captured through the experiences depicted in the film.
At the heart of this film is Tracy, the head of security at the clinic, who embodies the challenges faced by the staff daily. Her role transcends traditional security duties as she is deeply committed to protecting the dignity and humanity of patients amid hostile protests outside the clinic. Director Geeta Gandbhir emphasizes that the clinic is predominantly staffed by women of color, and aims to create an environment of respect and kindness despite the external pressures and societal stigma surrounding abortion care.
The film not only shines a light on the specific struggles of this Georgia clinic but also serves as a broader commentary on the implications of the Dobbs decision, which overturned nearly half a century of abortion rights in the U.S. The work done by clinics like the one featured in 'The Devil Is Busy' is crucial in a landscape where reproductive rights continue to be a contentious issue, underscoring the urgent need for compassion and support for those seeking care in increasingly restrictive environments.