JOURNAL ARTICLE

In the Best Interests of the Children: A Case Study of "Useful" Lesbian Film as Propaganda.

  • Published In: Feminist Media Histories, 2025, v. 11, n. 2. P. 144 1 of 3

  • Database: Film & Television Literature Index with Full Text 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Landberg, S Topiary 3 of 3

Abstract

This essay concerns the documentary In the Best Interests of the Children (1977) by the feminist collective Iris Films about lesbian mothers fighting to retain custody of their children in the 1970s. Comparing the original concept of the film, as a tool for education and social change, to its recent reemergence as a "forgotten" chapter of LGBTQ+ history, the article demonstrates the fluidity of useful film across time. Working with the personal papers of Frances Reid/Iris Films, and interviews with Reid and her "stepdaughter" Julie Stevens, this article provides a personal, contemporary queer account of discovery that highlights the film's aesthetic approach as lesbian propaganda while expanding presumptions about this "nontheatrical" feminist film. The article is accompanied by a video essay with clips from the film, production stills, archival documents, and filmed encounters with Frances Reid and Julie Stevens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:Feminist Media Histories. 2025/04, Vol. 11, Issue 2, p144
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Women's Studies and Feminism
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:2373-7492
  • DOI:10.1525/fmh.2025.11.2.144
  • Accession Number:184725634
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