And She Could Be Next

And She Could Be Next is a renowned documentary series—an important and notable entry in the canon of political and social documentary storytelling. Released in 2020 as part of the PBS Documentaries offering, this two-part series captures a pivotal moment in American democracy through the stories of women of color who are transforming politics from the ground up.

Directed by Grace Lee and Marjan Safinia, and executive produced by Ava DuVernay, the documentary operates as a clarion call for political engagement and a testament to the power of grassroots movements. The series focuses on a dynamic and diverse array of female candidates and organizers who play critical roles in the reformation of political landscapes and voter mobilization.

The filmmakers embark on a journey across the United States to tell the story of an emergent and distinct force in American politics: a group of determined individuals, mainly women of color, who not only offer a compelling vision for what inclusive governance could look like, but also bring indispensable leadership that has historically gone unnoticed. Featuring activists and candidates from various cultural backgrounds, including African American, Latina, Asian American, and Middle Eastern, the series weaves a tapestry of individuals who share a common goal to reshape American politics to be more reflective and inclusive of the communities they serve.

Throughout the roughly three-hour runtime (divided into two parts), viewers are taken on a behind-the-scenes tour of the American political machine, witnessing the strategies, the setbacks, and the profound successes experienced by these individuals. The series delves into topics including voting rights, immigration reform, and systemic racism, providing a rich backdrop for the stories of remarkable women working tirelessly to address these pressing issues.

At its core, And She Could Be Next spotlights the transformative power of women within political movements often marginalized and under-represented within mainstream narratives. With the 2018 midterm elections as the backdrop, the show becomes more than a political documentary—it acts as a living, breathing chronicle of democracy in action. It captures the passion and commitment of its subjects as they engage in the complex, often grueling process of campaigning, from the door-knocking and community organizing to the high-stakes drama of Election Day.

One of the documentary's strengths is its candid portrayal of the immense challenges these women face, from institutional barriers and cultural expectations to the relentless demands of campaign cycles. These challenges are not simply presented as obstacles to be overcome, but as catalysts that forge stronger leaders and more committed coalitions. The series offers a thrilling look at the inner workings of campaigns, including compelling interactions with volunteers, candid conversations with voters, and strategic decisions made in real-time.

And She Could Be Next doesn’t shy away from the emotional aspects of the political process. It captures moments of vulnerability and personal toll as well as those of triumph and community celebration, ensuring a human-centered narrative that is at once inspiring and reflective of the often untold cost of leadership.

Always forward-looking, the documentary doesn't merely conclude with the outcomes of various political races. Instead, it emphasizes the sustained effort required to build representative democracies and the ongoing need for engagement and vigilance. As the title suggests, the series portrays these political leaders as part of an ongoing lineage—trailblazers setting the stage for the next generation of activists and politicians.

While And She Could Be Next serves as an engaging and insightful piece of film making, its influence goes well beyond its duration. It acts as a rallying cry for viewers to recognize the power of their own voices and votes, and brings to light the essential work of women of color in steering the country towards a more equitable and representative future.

For those interested in politics, social justice, or the dynamics of power in America, this passionate and invigorating documentary offers an indispensable glimpse into the workings of change-makers who are indeed shaping what comes next in the American narrative. And She Could Be Next stands as a profound call to political action and a celebration of the leaders who are stepping up to ensure they are not the last to do so.