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Discover "Every Body," a striking documentary that immerses us in the intimate and fascinating lives of intersex people.
Through their personal stories, we learn about the profound historical injustices that have plagued the intersex community for generations. The film calls for acceptance and respect for all individuals, regardless of gender or sexual identity, and challenges society's ingrained biases. With up to 1.7% of the world's population identifying as intersex, "Every Body" is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to feel seen and understood.
Intersexuality is a little-known reality that impacts up to 1.7% of the global population, yet it raises complex questions about identity and the well-being of those experiencing it.
As the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights explains, intersex people possess atypical physical sex characteristics that do not fit classic definitions of male or female. From genitalia to distinctive external appearances, these characteristics can manifest in various ways, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for those living through it. Sadly, medical professionals often advise raising intersex children as either a boy or girl without consideration of true identity or potential psychological consequences.
In a world where marginalized groups' voices are often silenced, three emerging figures are standing up to be heard.
Actor and screenwriter River Gallo, political consultant Alicia Roth Weigel, and Ph.D. student Sean Saifa Wall, all intersex individuals, are at the forefront of a growing movement seeking to promote understanding and acceptance of their community. Through personal struggles and activism, these three have become powerful advocates for change. From Weigel's political consulting and authorship of "Inverse Cowgirl," to Gallo's groundbreaking role in the short film "Ponyboi," and Wall's courageous confrontation with his doctor on national television, their stories are as complex as inspiring. They are working together to end unnecessary surgeries and medical abuse. They are also fighting for the right to be respected and accepted for who they are.
As we listen to their stories and learn from their experiences in this documentary, we can gain a greater understanding of the importance of embracing diversity and promoting equality for all.
Filmmaker Julie Cohen's artistic genius is on full display in this project. Collaborating closely with producers Tommy Nguyen and Molly O'Brien, as well as intersex consulting producer Shana Knizhnik, Cohen has crafted a cinematic masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression. Her distinctive vision for the film is evident in every scene, showcasing the precise attention to detail that is synonymous with her work. From theatrical documentaries like "JULIA" and "My Name is Pauli Murray," to her solo projects such as "The Sturgeon Queens" and "Ndiphilela Ukucula: I Live to Sing," Cohen's extraordinary creativity continues to thrive in "Every Body." As an Oscar-winning director and Emmy winner for "RBG," it's no surprise that Julie Cohen has once again delivered a thought-provoking and captivating piece of cinema that is sure to resonate with audiences.
"I am so excited for people to see the stunning and empowering life stories of Saifa, Alicia, and River," she recently said. "Partnering with Focus Features and my longtime friends at NBC News Studios to bring this film to the world is both an honor and a thrill."
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Shana Knizhnik, a consulting producer on the film, commented:
"As an intersex person who—like Saifa, Alicia, and River—was kept in the dark about my own body for far too long, I'm thrilled that this film shines a light on their stories, and the story of our entire community. At a time when false conceptions of 'biology' are being militarized like never before, this film shows once and for all that life is so much more than XX and XY, and that's a beautiful thing."
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Molly O'Brien, head of documentary at NBC News Studios, expressed her pride and honor in presenting fascinating narratives from an often underrepresented and misunderstood community.
"NBC News Studios is honored to present such compelling stories to this underrepresented and misunderstood community," she said. "We are thrilled to be partnering again with our wonderful colleagues at Focus Features and with our longtime colleague Julie Cohen, whose ease and skill as a director, and ability to always find the love, truly set her films apart."
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Finally, Kiska Higgs, President of Production and Acquisitions at Focus Features, expressed excitement about collaborating with Julie Cohen.
"Focus is proud to be distributing a second film with our colleagues and friends at NBC News Studios, helmed by the wonderful Julie Cohen. Our collective hope is that EVERY BODY will deepen their understanding of what it means to be intersex, an important part of the population too long excluded from the conversation."
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The documentary "Every Body" is a powerful and moving portrayal of intersex individuals who have been marginalized and misunderstood for far too long.
Director Julie Cohen and editor Kelly Kendrick bring their expert storytelling skills to bear in crafting an informative and emotionally resonant film. Gallo, Seidel, and Weigel's personal stories are the heart of the work. They give you a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of those who identify as neither male nor female.
However, the film also explores beyond individual experiences to expose the systemic biases and injustices that have plagued the medical establishment for decades.
With its thoughtful critique and nuanced approach, "Every Body" is a must-watch for anyone seeking to better understand gender identity complexities and the importance of empathy and inclusivity in our society.
The highly anticipated documentary "Every Body" is set to release on June 30, 2023, following its premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 11.
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