HIDDEN ON STREAMING: "Crip Camp"

Netflix’s new documentary “Crip Camp” is a touching, tender documentary about the disability rights movement, directed by James Lebrecht and Nicole Newnham. It’s the perfect film to snuggle up with this weekend if you are in need of a good cry, some positivity, or a good belly laugh. We’ve got all the deets on why you’ve gotta check out this amazing documentary!

When the Obamas started their production company Higher Ground, we knew their films were going to slap. Like, DUH, if Michelle Obama’s biceps are associated with it, it’s going to be good.

“Crip Camp” premiered at the Sundance Film Festival last year to rave reviews, and we can see why. The doc begins in the 1970s at Camp Jened, a summer camp for disabled youth. Far from the scrutiny and bigotry of the world around them, they are able to form relationships, date, bicker, play music, and be teenagers.

The biggest twist? The director, Lebrecht, is disabled and attended the camp himself in his youth. He set out to tell its story, but what ended up coming out was a larger story about the disability rights movement and the growing tension between the disabled community and the world around them. As he and others talk about their experiences at the camp, it becomes clear that the idyllic days at summer camp are vital and deserved by everyone. 

One of the most striking moments in the film is the footage from the longest sit-in at a federal building in history -- the 504 Sit In. Disabled activists occupied the building for 25 days, resulting in new legislation protecting disabilities equal rights and the eventual passing of the 1990 Americans With Disabilities Act.

The world looks scary right now, but we can find comfort and solace in real life stories from around the world of people who stood up for what they believed in even when it was difficult. “Crip Camp” is now available to stream on Netflix!