The idea sparked from a chilling realization: society had become numb to the constant threat of violence against women. Lorien, searching for a way to break through the desensitization, found inspiration in the powerful writing of Andrea Dawkins, whose work fearlessly exposed the normalization of sexual violence.
She envisioned a project that wouldn’t preach, but would subtly, powerfully, demand attention. Not through shocking news footage, but through a creative space – a space where entertainment could unexpectedly become a catalyst for critical thought, much like the impact of novels like *The Perks of Being a Wallflower*.
The statistics are stark and unsettling. Six out of seven rapes are committed by someone known to the survivor, often a current or former partner. Yet, five in six rapes go unreported, leaving countless women to suffer in silence. This isn’t a problem confined to the shadows; it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life.
This reality fueled the creation of a film featuring a diverse chorus of voices – survivors, celebrities, and everyday individuals – all united by a shared concern. The project aimed to dismantle the dangerous misconceptions surrounding rape, challenging the false narratives that perpetuate the problem.
One particularly moving moment features Esther McGregor, tears streaming down her face as she delivers the heartbreaking line: “For myself, I just want to experience one day of freedom before I die.” It’s a raw, honest expression of a desire that should be universal, yet remains tragically out of reach for so many.
The film intentionally avoids a hierarchical structure, placing equal weight on the experiences of survivors and the support of public figures. Families participated across generations, with mothers and daughters, and fathers and children, joining together to lend their voices to the cause.
Crucially, the project actively sought the involvement of men. Lorien discovered a remarkable willingness to participate, a desire to contribute to a solution. Many men expressed a need for guidance, unsure of how to effectively advocate for change, but eager to do so.
The film isn’t about assigning blame, but about education. It’s about integrating crucial knowledge into early education, fostering a generation that understands consent, respect, and the devastating consequences of violence. It’s a proactive step towards preventing future suffering.
Without meaningful change, the grim trajectory continues. The filmmaker poses a haunting question: “How the hell have we got here?” A question that, if unanswered, will tragically become a reality, with an estimated 14 million rapes occurring in the next two decades.
The project serves as a stark reminder that silence is complicity. It’s a call to action, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths about violence against women and to work towards a future where freedom and safety are not privileges, but fundamental rights.
