Made in Bangladesh (2013)

The documentary Made in Bangladesh, produced by Al Jazeera America in 2013, delves into the harrowing reality of the garment industry in Bangladesh. The film centers around a tragic incident: the Tazreen Fashions factory fire that claimed the lives of at least 112 people.

Fault Lines: Made in Bangladesh takes viewers on a compelling journey to uncover the production practices of retail giants like Wal-Mart and GAP. These companies, while maintaining low prices for consumers, are implicated in human rights abuses. The documentary goes beyond conventional journalism, employing powerful filmmaking techniques to provide an intimate glimpse into daily life in and around these factories.

The film masterfully weaves together footage of working conditions in Bangladesh with a thorough investigation of corporate misbehavior. It exposes an “open secret” within the manufacturing industry: corporations often turn a blind eye to subcontractors who employ child labor and violate the very policies they claim to uphold. The implications span continents, indicting not only corporations and contractors but also consumers.

Made in Bangladesh wins a prestigious Peabody Award for its holistic portrayal of exploitation. Through meticulous reporting, it sheds light on a global issue, urging us to confront the human cost behind our everyday choices. The film serves as a powerful reminder that the clothes we wear have stories—stories of struggle, resilience, and the urgent need for change