While you may watch them as you curl up with popcorn and friends, documentaries can play a major role in shaping public opinion. Films such as “Super Size Me,” “An Inconvenient Truth” and “Miss Representation” have educated the public on the harmful effects of fast food, climate change and underrepresentation of women in the mainstream media, respectively.

“The Hunting Ground” is a new documentary that brings to light the epidemic of sexual assault at our nation’s colleges and universities. The film premiered at last month’s Sundance Film Festival and is scheduled to open in New York and Los Angeles on Feb. 27. Other cities will begin showing the film on March 13. 

Its trailer shows the struggle many women have faced in the wake of their assaults. The interviews and stories from these victims unite a group that too often remains silent and presents their stories in a poignant fashion. Its widespread viewing can encourage dialogue about areas many see as taboo or unfounded. 

The documentary is making headlines for its inclusion of Erica Kinsman, the 20-year-old woman who said she was raped by Florida State Quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner and expected top NFL draft pick Jameis Winston. 

Sexual assaults that don’t involve high-profile athletes or names are just as important to understand and investigate, and the nation has recently grown more attentive.

In recent months, the Department of Education’s civil rights office has investigated more than 90 colleges and universities for possible Title IX violations. 

These investigations are beneficial to the advancement of social justice. We can’t fully achieve this justice without a public that is more aware of continued injustice on our college campuses, most specifically concerning sexual assault. 

A high quality, easily accessible documentary can play a role in educating the public. 

“The Hunting Ground” is directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Kirby Dick, who directed the 2012 documentary “The Invisible War” about sexual assault in the U.S. military.

Media such as Dick’s documentary could inspire victims of sexual assault and injustice to come forward and be heard. If victims see they are not alone, perhaps they will feel more comfortable working to prevent future injustices. Additionally, the public can learn from Dick’s documentary and be more sympathetic toward those violated and abused.

Although growing investigations into Title IX violations on college campuses are helpful to victim justice, a documentary such as “The Hunting Ground” is essential to fostering significant public understanding of a serious problem too prevalent on our campuses and in society.