Free viewing set for March 27

Friday, March 22, 2019

An image from the movie "The Tale"
Courtesy Image

The prevalence of sexual assault and related issues means that many people will confront the issue at some point in their lives.

In "The Tale," a documentary filmmaker receives a call from her mother about a short story she wrote in eighth grade. From there, she and those around her begin to unravel the story behind the sexual abuse she experienced when she was 13. The film focuses on how trauma impacts memory and how the need for a person to survive can force a change in their perspective and coping methods.

The film was written and directed by Jennifer Fox, who has made documentaries about trauma and child abuse. The story is largely based on Fox’s own experience in confronting her past. Her close contact with survivors of childhood sexual assault made her realize that what she viewed at the time as a consensual relationship was actually abusive. The film examines how Fox’s own understanding of sexual assault contrasted with how she remembered her experiences.

"The Tale" will be shown in McConnell 240 at 6:10 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27. The free screening will be hosted by SHARPP and sponsored by the UNH women’s studies program. The film will be followed by a discussion.

As a warning, "The Tale" deals heavily in issues relating to sexual assault and trauma. There will be trained SHARPP advocates in the audience if any support is needed.