Free Joan Little
Synopsis
Free Joan Little tells the story of the 1975 groundbreaking case of Joan Little, who was the first woman in U.S. history to be acquitted for using deadly force to resist sexual assault. At 20 years old, Joan (pronounced Jo-Ann) Little was incarcerated in North Carolina when she killed a white jailer she said tried to rape her. Her trial drew international attention, becoming a rallying point for civil rights, women’s rights and prison reform. The case brought together activists, including Angela Davis and Rosa Parks, and catalyzed an international conversation about sexual assault and racial justice that has reverberations to this day. With rare archival footage, contemporary interviews and the folk anthem that carried her cause, Free Joan Little captures the spirit of resistance that made history. The film features Oscar-nominated actress Danielle Brooks (The Color Purple) as the voice of Joan.
Release History & Theatrical Window
DOC NYC
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Yoruba Richen
- Original Title
- Free Joan Little
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 36m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Yoruba Richen
Hannah Vanderlan
Christalyn Hampton
Department Leadership Roster
Yoruba Richen
Director
Hannah Vanderlan
Editor
Christalyn Hampton
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Free Joan Little.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Free Joan Little
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Free Joan Little about?
Free Joan Little tells the story of the 1975 groundbreaking case of Joan Little, who was the first woman in U.S. history to be acquitted for using deadly force to resist sexual assault. At 20 years old, Joan (pronounced Jo-Ann) Little was incarcerated in North Carolina when she killed a white jailer she said tried to rape her. Her trial drew international attention, becoming a rallying point for civil rights, women’s rights and prison reform. The case brought together activists, including Angela Davis and Rosa Parks, and catalyzed an international conversation about sexual assault and racial justice that has reverberations to this day. With rare archival footage, contemporary interviews and the folk anthem that carried her cause, Free Joan Little captures the spirit of resistance that made history. The film features Oscar-nominated actress Danielle Brooks (The Color Purple) as the voice of Joan.
Who directed Free Joan Little?
Free Joan Little was directed by Yoruba Richen.
Who stars in Free Joan Little?
The principal cast of Free Joan Little includes Not specified.
When was Free Joan Little released and how long is it?
Free Joan Little was released in 2025 with a total runtime of 36m.