True Stories 2001
Distributed by Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th Street, New York, NY 10016; 202-808-4980
Produced by Rachel Ira Perez
Directed by Rachel Ira Perez
VHS, color, 14 min.
Grades 6-12
Women's Studies
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Gerald A. Notaro, University of South Florida, St. PetersburgWhat used to be called “date rape” is now better described as “acquaintance rape,” the subject of True Stories. Rather than interviews with girls who had experienced acquaintance rape, even with a darkened silhouette to hide identities, the video contains “dramatic reenactments,” always a risky venture when directed toward adolescents. Though the actors are sincere enough, the video does not have the feel of a documentary, and unfortunately lessens the impact. That impact would seem to be the ultimate goal of viewing True Stories. The men/boys who are part of the vignettes don’t appear to be deterrents of bad behavior as portrayed in the video. They express the often heard excuse that the girls really wanted sex and deserved what they got, and couldn’t believe they were being punished at all. The effectiveness of including their portrayals is questionable. Not recommended for purchase.