“Period. End of Sentence.”, 2018
Director: Rayka Zehtabchi
This Oscar-winning short documentary shines a light on a group of women in rural India who, in the face of deep-rooted menstrual taboos, learn to manufacture sanitary pads. Their efforts not only aim to improve sanitary conditions but also empower themselves and their community by breaking the silence surrounding menstruation.
Starring: Ajeya, Anita, Gouri Choudari, Healthy Emmie, Shabana Khan, Arunachalam Muruganatham, Preeti, Rekha, Roksana, Shashi;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: documentary, short film;
Duration: 26 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Period. End of Sentence.” on the website imdb.com
“No Men Beyond This Point”, 2015
Director: Mark Sawers
This satirical mockumentary presents a world where women have become asexual and no longer give birth to males, partly attributing this evolution to the irrelevance of men in a world where menstruation can be manipulated. While the focus is broader, menstruation is a theme that is humorously explored in the context of gender dynamics.
Starring: Patrick Gilmore, Bronwen Smith, Tara Pratt, Kristine Cofsky, Adanna Avon, Morgan Taylor Campbell, Lilac Adams, Mackenzie Craddock, Dakota Guppy, Lorynne Machado;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: science fiction, drama, comedy;
Duration: 80 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,3;
More information about the film “No Men Beyond This Point” on the website imdb.com
These films, among others, contribute to the demystification and destigmatization of menstruation, encouraging discussions and better understanding of a perfectly natural bodily function.
In conclusion, films about menstruation provide a window into an often misunderstood and stigmatized aspect of female biology. A potent tool for education and debunking myths, these films connect with audiences on a highly personal level. By navigating the delicate subject matter with a balance of sensitivity, humor, and realism, they successfully humanize women's experiences and foster a more open dialogue about menstrual health. Their increasing prevalence in mainstream cinema, from coming-of-age dramas to documentaries, signifies the ongoing societal shift towards greater gender equality and health awareness.
