Bella! 2023

In 1970, the United States was a patriarchal society where men held almost all the power, but Bella Abzug refused to be silenced. With her signature hat and unapologetic Bronx swagger, she ran a groundbreaking campaign that propelled her into one of the highest echelons of American politics, shattering the glass ceiling for women everywhere. Her unwavering commitment to social justice earned her both admiration and intimidation as she traversed the streets of New York and the halls of Congress.

As a fierce opponent of President Nixon’s authoritarian rule, Bella formed unlikely alliances with icons like Barbra Streisand and became a stalwart champion of the burgeoning feminist movement. Her tireless advocacy for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and labor reform inspired a new generation to challenge the status quo. With her unyielding courage, she confronted the entrenched power structures in Washington, forging legislation that would benefit generations to come.

This film is a testament to Bella’s trailblazing legacy, featuring candid interviews with her family members, colleagues, adversaries, and friends, including Hillary Clinton, Barbra Streisand, Shirley MacLaine, Lily Tomlin, Maxine Waters, Nancy Pelosi, Phil Donahue, Marlo Thomas, Charles Rangel, and Gloria Steinem. Narrated by Bella herself, the film offers a first-hand account of her remarkable journey, laying out a roadmap for those seeking to effect change through political action.

As America grapples with another period of political turmoil and echoes of the 1970s’ crises continue to reverberate, the lessons from Bella’s courageous defiance and bipartisan efforts during the Nixon era are more relevant than ever. While some may view her as a forgotten hero, her tireless pursuit of equality has planted seeds that continue to bear fruit in our contemporary world. In an era when democracy is under siege, Bella’s unwavering tenacity serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking to protect and strengthen the fabric of American society.