Award-Winning Producers Back Intersex Documentary 'Let Us Be'

A significant documentary, "Let Us Be," which delves into the lives and experiences of intersex individuals globally, is gaining international traction. Off the Fence (OTF), the acclaimed storytelling media entity behind the Oscar-winning film "My Octopus Teacher," has officially joined the project to manage its sales and distribution. This move is expected to amplify the film's reach and impact, especially as it prepares for its Latin American debut at the esteemed Rio Film Festival and an upcoming presentation at Mipcom.

Helmed by Viviane D'Avilla, "Let Us Be" is a culmination of extensive research initiated in 2017. D'Avilla's exploration into the intersex community began with a short documentary titled "GOPI." Over the subsequent decade, her dedication evolved into this feature-length film, which intimately portrays the unique challenges, profound joys, and personal journeys of individuals whose physical characteristics do not align with conventional male or female definitions. The narrative thoughtfully weaves through diverse perspectives from intersex people residing in India, Brazil, and the United States, highlighting both shared experiences and cultural nuances.

The production of "Let Us Be" was a collaborative effort, involving Mariana Marinho and Marco Abujamra from Dona Rosa Films in Brazil, alongside Iz Web of Social Construct. A pivotal role was also played by pioneering intersex activist and author Hida Viloria, who serves as an executive producer, working with Zak Kilberg of Social Construct. The documentary's distribution is set to commence with OTF initiating sales efforts at Mipcom this October, aiming to secure a broad international audience.

Loren Baxter, Vice President of Acquisitions and Co-productions for Off the Fence, expressed profound admiration for the film, noting its capacity to both educate and empower. Baxter highlighted the film's positive and loving portrayal of its subjects, anticipating significant interest from potential buyers at Mipcom due to its intimate and powerful storytelling.

Hida Viloria emphasized the prevailing misconceptions surrounding the intersex community, stating that the film's multi-continental approach underscores the universality of intersex existence. Director D'Avilla articulated the film's core mission: to allow intersex individuals to define their identities with dignity, moving beyond societal and medical categorizations. Producer Marinho underscored the team's commitment to creating an accessible film that invites viewers into the characters' worlds, while also showcasing the rich aesthetic and cultural diversity across Brazil, India, and the United States, ultimately creating a film with global resonance.

The project received financial backing from public funds managed by the Brazilian National Film Agency Ancine, supplemented by contributions from FSA (Fundo Setorial do Audiovisual), Banco Regional de Desenvolvimento do Extremo Sul (BRDE), and RioFilme. This support enabled the film's completion and its eventual journey to international platforms, fostering a deeper understanding and acceptance of intersex experiences.