[Fantasia’21] ‘Born of Woman’ review: Eight films from five countries created by women

The Fantasia International Film Festival provides a venue for people from all over the world to share their experiences. Born of Woman (2021) is a collection of short films that showcase films by female creators from five different countries. Born of Woman uses unique cultural perspectives to explore shared fears, insecurities, darkness, and desire for empowerment. The films presented in Born of Woman are artistic, experimental, and gripping. 

One of the common themes explored in this film is the need for survival. From fighting for individuality in Deanna Mulligan’s Lucid to fighting for your life in Thirza Cuthand’s She Whistles, the story is told from a female perspective and looks at the need to align oneself with community. Lucid features an interesting soundtrack that tells the story of Mia’s fight to express herself. Mulligan’s directing and use of color help explore Mia’s insecurities as she fights to be understood in a pretentious art school. The shots of Mia’s face as her anxiety and fear mounts draws the audience in to feel her pain. 

Cuthand’s She Whistles makes excellent use of the setting. Somewhat isolated and illuminated only by the Northern Lights. Cuthand’s protagonist faces every woman’s fear and must call on the forces of her ancestors to right many wrongs. The dialogue between Stephanie and Aidan is tense and is enough to stir fear. Cuthand’s use of regional culture aligns with the fight for preservation. 

Spanish short Dana by Thais Blume features a feminist superhero. A young woman finds a new calling in life as she comes to terms with a traumatic encounter. Clever and insightful, Dana follows  a woman who seeks out justice for those that were failed by the system. 

Lucid, Dana, and She Whistles are only some of the films featured in Born of Woman. Each short is bold and speaks loudly to the dangers faced by women as well as the psychological trauma imposed when trying to succeed. Born of Woman (2021) is playing at The Fantasia Festival.

The Fantasia Film Festival takes place in person and online from August 5 – August 25