Since 1996, women across America have been performing Eve Ensler’s play “The Vagina Monologues.” They are mostly hilarious, sometimes sad, and almost always relateable. Already knowing her work, I recently watched a documentary that Ensler made in 2003 titled, “What I Want My Words To Do To You.”

It was filmed in New York State’s Bedford Hills Correctional Facility and it chronicles Ensler teaching a writing workshop for the women in the facility. Admittedly, I went into this documentary with a certain set of expectations about what I was about to see and hear. And, once again, to my surprise Ensler far exceeded my expectations! These women are captivating and articulate about their experiences.

They write in beautiful, thoughtful and unique voices about prison, their crimes, and the social issues each one has encountered. Their stories are told/performed by Glenn Close, Marisa Tomei, Mary Alice, Rosie Perez, and Hazelle Goodman.