The Side Effects of Normal

    An intersex person who was born with genital differences and was forced to undergo a genital “normalizing” surgery that they did not consent to as a child. As a result of medical trauma, they struggle with PTSD, dysphoria and dissociation as an adult. At first, we see them struggle with their mental health – experience flashbacks, depression, discomfort with their body, etc. – however, through advocacy, sharing their story, and meeting other intersex people, they begin to enter into recovery and ultimately, a much healthier reality.

    Topics Covered
    Addiction, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Social Connections
    Content Heads Up
    Misgendering; discussion of Intersex Genital Mutilation; brief nudity; blood
    Representation
    Adult, LGBTQ
    Film Style
    Drama
    Festivals & Awards bg

    Festivals & Awards

    Wreath
    Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project

    Screening

    2022

    Filmmaker

    Mari Wrobi

    Mari Wrobi (they/them) is a queer, nonbinary, intersex advocate from Sacramento, CA. They work at an LGBTQ youth shelter, advocate with interACT, and intern at the Gender Health Center. Mari educates nationwide on trans and intersex rights and enjoys spoken word and Magic: The Gathering.

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