ABC Article:

WOMENARCHE

A film by Ellie Cheesman

Womenarche is a project about empowering menarche, menstruation, and the 'girl to woman' experience. I was fascinated that something so common - that was occurring to 1 in 4 women that I saw on a daily basis - was so hidden and steeped in shame, stigma and secrecy.

I aimed to destigmatise the sensitive topic by holding gentle and open conversations with women and younger girls. Some of these conversations I recorded and used as part of the 14 minute film.

The title of the film comes from the word 'menarche' meaning the first menstrual bleed, and I was claiming it back for 'women' since I found it ironic that a deeply feminine word began with 'men'.

The women and girls in the film discussed their perceptions and experiences of menarche, menstruation, girl and womanhood and the transition between the two: when it happened, what happened, how did it feel, what was it like for them personally, what do they think it would be like for other people? The younger girls in the film had not yet experienced menarche so they spoke mostly about how they're feeling about it now and what they think it might be like, whereas the older participants reflected on their past experiences.

I believe we can normalise the topic by speaking openly whenever the opportunity arises. For example, if you are a mother, you could say to your children 'mum is on her period right now so she's feeling a bit sensitive at the moment' and then explain to them what that means, regardless of how old or young they are, or if you're in school and you need a menstrual item, you can ask a friend or teacher confidently instead of whispering or hiding it.

I don't think periods are anything to be ashamed of. They happen outside of our control to a certain extent, so why be ashamed of something you didn't create?

The film 'Womenarche' is now a resource used in the Rite Journey Program throughout schools in Australian and abroad, and was made possible by the support of the Regional Arts Fund. 'Womenarche II' will be released in January 2024, filmed in Tokyo and Nara, Japan.

https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/949899-womenarche

https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/womenarche-movie-girls-first-period-menarche/100920768

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"I loved Womenarche. The musicality of it, and how "sound and movement" it is, rather than people sitting in front of the camera and talking. How it flows like a river."

-Mother of a 9 year old daughter

"A triumph of creative vision, where every aspect of the film reflects the director's unique perspective."

"The film's visuals are a visual treat, with stunning cinematography that captures every scene with breathtaking beauty."

"The film is a testament to the power of storytelling, engaging viewers on an emotional and intellectual level."

-judges' comments at the 2023 Student World Impact Film Festival