Directed by Julie Cohen, following three individuals who overcame shame, secrecy, and unauthorized surgery throughout their childhoods to enjoy successful adulthoods. Choosing to ignore medical advice to conceal their bodies and coming out as who they truly were. Starring: Sean Saifa Wall, Alicia Roth Weigel and River Gallo.
Kicking things off on the perfect note, Every Body gives viewers some very interesting statistics, revealing that being Intersex may be more common than you expected. It is not a topic often discussed, documentaries like this one are helping to pave the way, to give a greater understanding of what being Intersex actually means. It’s another reminder that a lack of understanding can be dangerous, and compassion and listening are always key.
While Julie Cohen undoubtedly fosters an open, honest and kind atmosphere for Sean Saifa Wall, Alicia Roth Weigel and River Gallo to discuss their stories, there is a lot of trauma to unfold. The generosity of that environment balances the tales of hurt and long-lasting damage that each of the subjects have to tell. Not only that but the fact that having gone through such horrible experiences, for years of their lives, that they can remain positive and hopeful is genuinely impressive.
Another part of that balance is the editing and use of footage, moving between an open discussion and real-world examples of prejudice, poor treatment and disastrous health advice and medical ethics. It manages to contain this huge mix of emotions within its positive atmosphere which means it can somehow be shocking or lovely at any given moment. It also manages to instil its larger message while holding onto a personal, intimate tone. The during credits dance sequence is also a nice touch.
Ultimately Every Body demonstrates that these traumatic experiences which Wall, Weigel and Gallo went through could be avoided with purely kindness and compassion. Posing the question of, is that really that much to ask? It’s a timeless message, that by making the effort to be understanding, the world could be a better place. Rather than simply attempting to reject something because it falls outside of an arbitrary norm. You have to hope that Julie Cohen’s efforts here and other filmmakers giving Intersex people a platform, can prevent any other young people going through that same trauma.
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