Born Into Brothels Summary Draft

    Films have been one of the most vital creations in history as it’s allowed people to express their experiences and visions and broadcast it millions. Directors Ross Kaufman and Zane Briski’s 2004 documentary Born into Brothels begins with introducing the children of Red-Light District prostitutes. They highlight the poverty-like conditions they experience daily as well as describe encounters they have with these Men. More specifically the documentary was filmed in Sonagachi which is one of the many Red-Light Districts throughout Calcutta, India. As the introductory shots show these children are physically confined to their area as they don’t have the time nor resources to pursue a higher education. This in turn creates an unfortunate reality for many children as they are forced to join the prostitution world when they come of age. Coupled with the fact that the Men throughout these areas are hostile and violent it leaves these children powerless.

To combat and shed light on this issue, photographer Briski decides to go to India to take pictures of these women and help the local children. With this newfound bond the children begin to gravitate towards her and use her as a role model. As Briski emphasizes, the Red-Light District makes it impossible to take photos of people as they’re afraid of the cameras. She instead uses this as a teaching moment and devotes her stay to helping these children and tap into a passion that could’ve only dreamed of previously. With this newfound knowledge she introduces them to the wonders of photography. Immediately the children show a deep interest in it as they go around town and take photos of either themselves or their lives.

Photography as many people know is normally dominated by individuals who have the resources and money to pursue this craft which is why poorer individuals like these children aren’t as involved. However, this doesn’t deter the group, it instead motivates them which is evident in the attitude and outlook from one of these students. Despite all the success his peers are experiencing, Avigit still shines brighter than all the rest. Both Ross and Zane are so impressed with his work that they want him to attend the World Press Photo Foundation Program in Amsterdam. As any child would be they immediately were excited as it would be one of their first times on a plane as well as leaving India.

Their work is featured throughout local stores throughout India and is found out to be in a local Oxford Bookstore. Despite all their children’s success the parents still see this as a burden to their family as they’d lose a potential source of income. Throughout all this Briski’s ambition and pursuit for these kids goes far beyond what most would do as she attempts to enroll these kids into boarding school to hopefully give them a better shot at achieving their dreams. Unfortunately, the government doesn’t make this process as painless as it could be as they request a variety of forms whether it’s vaccination records and birth certificates. The documentary concludes with each child going on different journeys, some even ending up back at where they started despite all the hard work and time they put into their passion. Although these children were able to experience a once in a lifetime opportunity their dreams of pursuing their passions were put on hold.