239. On The Record; movie review

ON THE RECORD
Cert 15
97 mins
BBFC advice: Contains sexual violence references, discrimination, disturbing images, language

This is the type of brave documentary-making which deserves an avalanche of praise.
Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering are taking on two of the most well-known music empire moguls, Russell Simmons and L.A. Reid over allegations of sexual abuse and harassment.
And, to make it a fair fight, they had the might of the lawyers of Apple, HBO and Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions battling their corner.
The focus of On The Record is Drew Dixon a very successful record promoter who worked for Simmons' at Def Jam.
She was immersed in her dream job but the advances toward her by Simmons became more and more distressing.
Dixon tells how she was forced to leave Def Jam and thought her career was back on track with Arista Records until Reid joined and, subsequently, made inappropriate demands.
She walked away, further risking her livelihood, but felt unable to report the crimes because of the power of both men.
Dixon tells her story chronologically, building up to jaw-dropping allegations for which neither man has stood trial.
Her evidence is supported by others who tell how they were victims of similar abuse, particularly at the hands of Simmons.
All of the complainants are women of colour who believe that ethnic groups have been left out of the #metoo movement which has seen the likes of Harvey Weinstein jailed.
Their evidence is that the establishment is not only less likely to believe women of colour but that the African American community will be angry if its 'heroes' become tainted.
Thanks to the bravery of Dixon and other victims who have been inspired by her, this may change.
Let us hope so and let us be thankful that brave movie-makers such as those behind On The Record really can turn long-established mindsets - albeit very slowly.

Reasons to watch: Another step towards righting wrongs
Reasons to avoid: Its targets get off too lightly

Laughs: None
Jumps: None
Vomit: None
Nudity: None
Overall rating: 8.5/10

Did you know? The phrase "Me Too" was initially used in this context on social media in 2006, on Myspace, by sexual harassment survivor and activist Tarana Burke.

The final word. Kirby Dick: "I still think there’s a real deep-seated misogyny and distrust of survivors that exists, and it can very quickly be amplified. Me Too didn’t change everything. It’s a very dynamic situation that could fly back." Vulture

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