Watch Zero Weeks

Zero Weeks is a compelling and eye-opening documentary directed by Ky Dickens that delves into the urgent need for paid family leave in the United States. In this powerful film, Dickens examines the experiences of individuals and families who have faced the devastating consequences of having no access to paid time off for family-related situations. Throughout its runtime, Zero Weeks presents a thought-provoking exploration of the far-reaching impacts of this issue on the lives of American citizens.

The film begins by addressing the shocking reality that the United States is the only developed nation in the world without a federal law mandating paid leave for new parents. Through a combination of personal stories and expert testimonies, Zero Weeks traces the historical context of paid family leave in the country, highlighting the lack of progress and the consequences of this omission. Dickens interviews a diverse range of individuals, including parents, caregivers, and workers from various backgrounds, shedding light on their struggles and how no paid leave has affected their lives in different ways.

One of the most powerful aspects of Zero Weeks is its unfiltered spotlight on the challenges faced by working parents. The film showcases emotional interviews with mothers and fathers who have been forced to choose between their families and their jobs. It vividly portrays heart-wrenching situations, such as parents returning to work just days after giving birth or adopting, which not only take a toll on their physical and mental health but also hinder their ability to bond with their children.

Moreover, Zero Weeks explores the repercussions of not having paid leave for adult caregiving responsibilities. The film draws attention to the growing number of aging parents who require care and the strain this puts on their adult children. Through compelling narratives, viewers see the enormous financial, emotional, and physical burdens that these caregivers endure, often at the cost of sacrificing their own professional and personal lives.

The documentary also delves into the economic implications of the lack of paid leave policies. By examining the experiences of workers in low-wage jobs, Zero Weeks reveals how the absence of paid leave perpetuates a cycle of poverty. Many individuals face the impossible choice of either providing for their families or caring for their loved ones in need. With a focus on the economic impact of paid leave policies, the film underscores how inadequate support directly contributes to economic inequality.

In addition to personal stories, Zero Weeks features expert interviews with policymakers, academics, and advocates who provide context, analysis, and potential solutions to the paid leave crisis. The film highlights successful models from other countries that have implemented paid leave policies and examines the positive effects they have had on individuals, families, and society as a whole. These expert perspectives enrich the documentary by presenting a broad range of viewpoints and fostering a deeper understanding of the issue.

Throughout the documentary, Dickens employs a balanced approach, giving a voice to different sides of the debate. She interviews business owners and representatives who argue against paid leave policies, primarily due to concerns over the potential financial strain on smaller companies. By providing a platform for these opposing viewpoints, Zero Weeks encourages a broader conversation about how to implement effective and sustainable paid leave policies that address the concerns of both employers and employees.

Overall, Zero Weeks is an emotionally charged and informative documentary that shines a much-needed light on the urgent need for paid family leave in the United States. Through personal stories, expert analysis, and a call to action, the film effectively demonstrates the devastating impact of the country's lack of paid leave policies on individuals, families, and society at large. Its thought-provoking exploration raises awareness and spurs discussions on this critical issue, aligning with the growing movement for change.

Zero Weeks is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes.