THIS BODY TOO/Y ESTE CUERPO TAMBIEN-Big Sky Pitch

Logline: This Body, Too is a poignant and personal documentary directed by Arisleyda Dilone, exploring the intersection of identity, family, and medical history through the lens of an intersex individual. The film delves into Dilone’s life at thirty-eight, when she faces the decision to either replace her expired breast implants or revert to her natural state. The implants, which were meant to address a disconnect with femininity, now pose health risks and symbolize broader issues of self-perception and medical intervention.

Synopsis: Dilone’s story begins with her teenage years when a chromosome analysis revealed her intersex condition (gonadal dysgenesis) and led to a series of medical interventions. These included hormone treatments and a controversial hysterectomy, which left her grappling with her identity and ability to conceive. Her subsequent choice to undergo breast augmentation was initially met with familial approval but also revealed deeper issues of conformity and self-image. The documentary’s narrative intertwines Dilone's personal struggles with broader themes, including her relationship with her mother, medical professionals, and a long-term partner. It also examines the cultural dynamics of her Dominican heritage, exploring how these influence perceptions of gender and body image. A significant part of the film is devoted to her attempts to understand her roots in Boca de Bao, Dominican Republic, and uncover family secrets related to intersex identity.

Timeline: This Body, Too is at a rough cut

Budget: To date, the film has secured $62,491 from various supportive institutions and an additional $15,000 in private support. Fundraising efforts will continue through a crowdfunding campaign aimed at covering final production costs, marketing, and community screenings in both the US and Latin America. The total production budget is $253,392.15 and includes costs for director and production staff, equipment, locations, post-production, marketing, and contingency. The project’s comprehensive budget reflects its scope and ambition, aiming to deliver a compelling and impactful film.

Authorship: Dilone’s approach to the documentary is inspired by filmmakers like Heddy Honigmann and Ross McElwee, whose work balances deep empathy with humor and personal insight. The film adopts a diaristic style, utilizing both spontaneous and carefully crafted scenes to capture raw, intimate moments. This approach not only personalizes the narrative but also challenges traditional representations of intersex experiences, focusing on familial dynamics and societal expectations.