“To A More Perfect Union: U.S. v Windsor” Review

I cannot begin to speak on “To a More Perfect Union: U.S. v Windsor” without first reflecting on this quote from Lin Manuel Miranda’s 2016 Tony acceptance speech:

“When senseless acts of tragedy remind us that nothing here is promised, not one day. This show is proof that history remembers we lived through times when hate and fear seemed stronger; we rise and fall and light from dying remembrances that hope and love last longer and love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside.”

“To a More Perfect Union: U.S. v Windsor” that chronicles the story of Edie Windsor and her attorney, Roberta Kaplan, in their hallmark case that struck a huge blow in the fight for marriage equality. The film focuses both on the personal lives of the individuals impacted by the case, the legal journey, and educates on the history and social tides of the movement for equality in the United States. Activists, legal experts, and supporters of the movement weigh in on the issue and flesh out not only one of the greatest love stories but a story of the fight for justice. The film is helmed by director and producer, Donna Zaccaro.

With June being National Pride Month and such an important marker in the history of the movement for equality, “To a More Perfect Union: U.S. v Windsor” is a perfect reminder of how far we have come.

This film was, in a word, moving. One can’t help falling in love with Edie and Thea’s relationship. Their love story is as uplifting as it is heartbreaking, when you consider the opposition they faced.

The story goes beyond court cases and personal tragedy and a history of a movement. These are the stories that this country is built on. It’s about our freedoms and what happens when our country chooses to love.

The storytelling and the presentation of the history is masterful and I easily rank this among the top documentary films that I have seen, in recent years. Zaccaro perfectly pieces together a narrative of past and present. Showing the journey of the gay rights movement and placing the past struggles alongside current conflict. In the story of Edie and Thea, there is a summary of the story of an entire group of people. History can sometimes feel so distant and dead on the page. This film breathes the life and humanity into it. It’s a compelling story that is presented perfectly.

I can’t recommend this film enough. It was a tonic and a joy and so important.  The film will be playing in select cities across the nation. For screening info click here.