American Circumcision

American Circumcision is an enlightening and thought-provoking documentary released in 2017, written and directed by Brendon Marotta. The film features many insightful contributors including Georgeanne Chapin, Jonathon Conte, and Dean Edell, offering a profound exploration into one of the most controversial topics in society today – circumcision.

Right from the beginning, American Circumcision is careful to present both sides of this contentious issue. The film delves into the history, current practices, cultural and religious implications, and the ongoing debate surrounding neonatal circumcision in the United States. The goal of the film is not to pass judgement, but rather to educatively examine the ethical, medical, and cultural aspects pertaining to this deeply root practice.

In its analysis, the film interviews a myriad of individuals from different professional backgrounds including medical experts, religious leaders, researchers, and those directly affected by the topic. This includes the passionate activists who are collectively seeking change, known as "Intactivists".

Key to the documentary is the exploration of the historical beliefs and traditions surrounding circumcision. It carefully examines the practice from a religious perspective, exploring the origins and scripts relevant to it among Abrahamic religions. The film interviews people who have chosen to break these religious traditions, emphasizing the emotional and ethical choice they encounter.

From there, American Circumcision dives into the medical perspective, scrutinising the assumed health benefits and potential risks associated with the procedure. Distinctly featured are medical professionals such as Dean Edell, who reveal their views on circumcision’s relevance to overall male health. Both the benefits touted by the American medical community and the contradicting views from outside the United States are presented, creating a balanced illustration of different viewpoints globally.

An essential and emotionally charged portion of American Circumcision involves investigating the testimonials of those who have undergone the procedure as infants and the psychological impact it's had on them as adults. This includes the dearly departed Jonathon Conte, a well-known intactivist who shares his personal experience. The film does an excellent job of humanizing the issue, allowing those directly affected to have their voices heard.

Another crucial component of the film is the exploration of intactivism. Intactivists argue for an individual's right to bodily autonomy, believing that every person should have the right to make the decision for their body rather than having it made for them at birth. Featured in this category is Georgeanne Chapin, executive director of the non-profit organization, Intact America. Her insights give depth to the ethical aspects of the debate.

The film expertly oscillates between factual statistics and intimate personal narratives, creating a powerful combination that captures the viewer's attention and provokes critical thinking. Through exploration of diverse opinions and lived experiences, American Circumcision illuminates the complexities involved in a decision many parents have to make for their newborn sons, and a decision many adult males encounter with regards to their own bodies.

American Circumcision provides an unbiased, thought-provoking, and profound exploration into a cultural, religious, and medical issue that tends to be swathed in quiet secrecy despite its widespread practice. Through its deliberate, careful analysis and perceptive commentary, the film encourages open dialogue and consideration of this deeply personal issue.

Without a doubt, this film is not just for those deliberating the choice of circumcision for their sons or themselves, but for anyone interested in understanding human rights, bodily autonomy, cultural traditions, medical practices, and ethics. Its depth of content and thought-encouraging approach make it a must-watch for those seeking to broaden their understanding of one of the most heatedly debated practices in contemporary society.

Whether viewers find themselves siding with the pro-circumcision stance, the intactivist perspective, or somewhere in between, American Circumcision is a sure to stimulate meaningful conversation. Its nuanced portrayal of complex issues positions the film as much more than a simple documentary - it is a catalyst for societal discourse and potential change.