New doc dives into inmate riots for better living conditions at Attica state prison

“One of the most remarkable things about the story is how quickly the prisoners were able to find some order out of the original chaos,” says ‘Attica’ co-director Traci Curry.

“One of the most remarkable things about the story is how quickly the prisoners were able to find some order out of the original chaos,” says ‘Attica’ co-director Traci Curry. Photo courtesy of Firelight Films.

At the maximum security state prison Attica in upstate New York, more than 1000 inmates overwhelmed dozens of guards and civilian prison workers, and took control of the prison 50 years ago. They killed one guard and took the rest hostage. The prisoners demanded better treatment and living conditions. A new documentary looks at the biggest prison uprising in U.S. history. It’s called “Attica,” and is directed by Stanley Nelson and Traci A. Curry. 

Also, critics review the latest movie releases: “Last Night in SoHo,” “Antlers,” “Violet,” “Passing,” and “The Souvenir: Part II.”

From this Episode:

Credits

Host:

Madeleine Brand

Producers:

Sarah Sweeney, Angie Perrin, Michell Eloy, Brian Hardzinski, Bennett Purser, Nisha Venkat