The Derby

About This Movie

The Derby (1913) is a documentary that encapsulates a pivotal moment in suffragette history. It presents an unsettling view of Emily Davison's self-sacrifice, as she steps onto the track at the Epsom Derby, only to be struck down by the King's horse. The pacing is brisk, almost chaotic, reflecting the urgency of the early 20th-century women's rights movement. The film's rawness is striking—there's no dramatic score or editing tricks here, just the stark reality of the event. You can feel the tension, the stakes of the moment. It’s an unusual piece, blending sports and activism, capturing a fleeting but significant act. The atmosphere is heavy, and it invites reflection on the lengths people go for their beliefs.

Documentary on suffragette activismRaw historical footageSignificant cultural context