Deep Dive: Playground (2009)
Film Lens

Playground is a 2009 documentary directed by Libby Spears that focuses on the child sex trade in the United States. The film challenges the belief that child sexual exploitation is confined to developing countries, tracing its roots to American society. It examines how children are educated about sex and the difficulties in raising awareness about this hidden crime.
The documentary includes interviews with key figures such as Ernie Allen, President of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and Judge Sanford 'Sammy' Jones, Former Chief Judge of the Fulton County Juvenile Court. The narrative centers around the search for Michelle, a girl who became a victim of sexual exploitation and has not been seen for a decade.
Why Watch
- •Meet Ernie Allen, a leader in child protection efforts.
- •Find out about Michelle's story and the search for her.
- •See original artwork by Yoshitomo Nara featured in the film.
Did You Know
•The film was directed by Libby Spears and produced by David de Rothschild.
•Ernie Allen is the President of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
•Michelle, the subject of the search, has been missing for a decade.
Perfect For
Child protection advocatesSocial justice activistsDocumentary enthusiasts