Title: Groundbreaking Documentary “Every Body” Highlights Intersex Activists’ Journeys of Self-Acceptance
Subtitle: Filmmaker Julie Cohen sheds light on the intersex community’s struggle and resilience
Date: [Insert Date]
As an actor and filmmaker, River Gallo is no stranger to crafting captivating narratives from the perspective of fictional characters. However, their latest project demanded a distinctly personal approach, as they grappled with relinquishing control over their own narrative. Gallo is one of three intersex activists featured in the groundbreaking new documentary titled “Every Body,” directed by Julie Cohen, which was released in theaters Friday.
The film delves into the traumatic experiences that many intersex individuals face during their youth. However, it primarily serves as a celebration of those who have not only embraced their true selves but also become advocates for social change. Gallo, who uses they/them pronouns, expressed the discomfort and peculiar nature of bringing their personal experience to the forefront of the documentary. Despite this, they credited Cohen for cultivating a safe space that allowed each activist to express themselves authentically.
The term “intersex” refers to individuals whose biological characteristics do not align with society’s traditional definitions of sex and gender. In most cases, intersex individuals possess a combination of male and female physical, chromosomal, and hormonal attributes. Shockingly, it is estimated that 1.7% of babies are born with intersex traits. However, due to medical professionals often assigning them a male or female gender at birth, definitive data on the intersex community is scarce. This practice often leads to these children undergoing surgeries during infancy.
Interestingly, Cohen found inspiration for the documentary from the life experiences of David Reimer, a Canadian man who was not intersex but whose story resonates with many within the intersex community. Raised as a female after a botched circumcision destroyed his penis during infancy, Reimer only discovered the truth about his identity later in life and tragically died by suicide at the age of 38 in 2004.
Julie Cohen, who co-directed the acclaimed documentary “RBG” about the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, places Reimer’s story at the heart of “Every Body,” citing the relevance of his case in an era where our understanding of gender is expanding. Despite tackling such rich and complex subject matter, Cohen was resolute in presenting a feel-good and positive message about the intersex community as a whole.
To achieve her vision, Cohen sought out Gallo, along with fellow activists Sean Saifa Wall and Alicia Roth Weigel. She aimed to educate viewers and inspire them to explore further research on intersex individuals, ultimately fostering support for the community’s causes. The trio provides lighthearted moments of humor and joy throughout the film, adding depth to the documentary.
Cohen emphasized that the three activists portrayed in the film have overcome significant challenges with grace, pride, and resilience. Irrespective of external judgment, their victorious spirit lies in their ability to speak up and fight for themselves and others. This central theme resonates strongly throughout the documentary.
“Every Body” recently premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, where it received widespread acclaim. The New York Times praised it as “warmly engaging,” and The Hollywood Reporter asserted that the film evokes a sense of hope and possibility for the intersex community through increased awareness and collective action.
For Gallo, one of the film’s most significant achievements is its portrayal of Wall, Weigel, and themselves as cool individuals working towards societal change. Amid the current wave of anti-trans legislation across the United States, Gallo highlighted the continued oppression faced by intersex people. They expressed a desire for intersex individuals to feel seen, understood, and celebrated, fostering a belief that they can achieve anything they set out to accomplish.
“Every Body” stands as an important work that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of the intersex community. By sharing personal stories and perspectives, the documentary aims to inspire empathy, understanding, and ultimately, positive change for intersex individuals around the world.
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to 988Lifeline.org or visit dontcallthepolice.com for local crisis resources. Outside of the United States, contact the International Association for Suicide Prevention.