A film review written in 2019 has unexpectedly become evidence in a federal terrorism trial. Sophie Lewis, a Philadelphia-based author and independent scholar, discovered her analysis of the horror films “Hereditary” and “Midsommar” was submitted as evidence by prosecutors in the case of 18 individuals arrested during a protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The Case
The arrests stemmed from a demonstration held on July 4th at ICE’s Prairieland Detention Facility in Alvarado, Texas, during which a police officer was shot. Prosecutors allege the defendants are part of an “antifa cell” and have introduced Lewis’s film review – published in zine format – as “evidence of ideologically driven intent.” Daniel Sanchez Estrada, one of the defendants, had a copy of the zine seized from his home last summer.
Lewis expressed shock at the development, noting the absurdity of linking her film criticism to terrorism. The government has accused Estrada of attempting to conceal “Antifa materials” and conspiring to do so, charges that carry a potential 20-year prison sentence. While Estrada is not directly charged with terrorism, prosecutors are attempting to associate him with the label.
A Pattern of Criminalization
According to reporting, President Donald Trump has previously “conflated antifa and terrorism,” even designating antifa a “major terrorist organization” – a designation that does not legally exist for domestic groups. The FBI, as noted by Natasha Lennard, often relies on circumstantial evidence to build cases against protesters, even without a direct link between those charged and any alleged crimes.
Lewis’s review, titled “The Satanic Death-Cult Is Real,” explores themes in the horror films “Hereditary” and “Midsommar.” She noted the irony that her perform, intended as cultural criticism, is being used to support a narrative that misrepresents the motivations and nature of antifascist movements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the zine format?
Although Lewis originally published the review in “Commune” magazine, it was the zine version of the piece that was seized from Daniel Sanchez Estrada’s home and introduced as evidence in the trial.
What charges are the defendants facing?
Estrada is accused of attempting to conceal documents “by transporting a box containing numerous Antifa materials” and conspiracy to conceal those zines. He faces up to 20 years in prison.
Has President Trump previously taken action against antifa?
Yes, President Trump has previously deemed antifa a “major terrorist organization” – a legal designation that does not exist for domestic groups – and has conflated antifa with terrorism.
As this case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the prosecution’s strategy will succeed. However, the incident raises important questions about the boundaries of free speech and the potential for political motivations to influence legal proceedings.
