It Happened Here

It Happened Here is a thought-provoking, harrowing, and deeply moving 2014 documentary that focuses on the epidemic of sexual assaults occurring on university campuses across the United States. Directed by Lisa F. Jackson and produced by Marjorie Schwartz Nielsen, the film presents the real-life accounts of five survivors who decided to publicly share their experiences with the objective of exposing the endemic culture of sexual assault in American institutions of higher learning. Included in the cast are Kylie Angell, Anna Chapman, and Erica Daniels, each sharing their personal encounters in a manner both gripping and heartbreaking.

At the core of It Happened Here is the provocative dialogue it initiates about the prevalence and handling of sexual assault cases on university campuses. The enlightening narrative combined with the raw and emotive testimonies reveal an institutionalized neglect and seeming insensitivity towards victims, a context which often leaves victims feeling isolated and unheard. This documentary succeeds in bringing these complex issues to light and, perhaps most importantly, highlighting the urgent need for change.

Kylie Angell, Erica Daniels, and Anna Chapman's powerful narratives form the backbone of the film. Ranging from outright assault to coerced intoxication leading to offense, the incidents described by the participants reveal a disturbing pattern of abuse that is often ignored or inadequately addressed within the academic system. Despite varying experiences and unique personal circumstances, the survivors share common struggles, including feelings of guilt, fear, a lack of institutional support, and societal blame.

As each survivor recounts their unpleasant experience, the audience is led through the sobering reality of the different stages - from the traumatic incident, the often futile attempts to secure justice, dealing with denial, and then gradually finding the strength to move on from the experience. The film also explores the impact of these assaults on the individuals’ academic, personal, and social lives, serving as an impetus for each survivor to seek a solution, spark a change, and share their stories to make a difference.

Beyond the personal narratives, It Happened Here also delves into how universities handle such issues. It criticizes the institutional response, or lack thereof, and condemns the common trend of universities putting their reputations before the safety or rights of the victim. They often downplay incidents, fail to follow protocols, or even resist the necessary investigations. The documentary criticizes these universities for contributing to an environment where such actions can occur. It significantly captures the systematic failures and institutional apathy, further painting a picture of a pandemic that needs urgent redress.

Moreover, the documentary also serves as a critique of American society’s approach to sexual assault. It explores how society oftentimes perpetuates victim-blaming, imposes toxic masculinity, and trivializes such incidents. It Happened Here creates a platform for challenging these harmful norms and highlights the necessity of societal reform.

Visually, the movie is simply yet sensitively crafted, letting the testimonies take center stage amidst sobering visuals of university life contrasted with powerful survivor profiles. Sensitivity is given prominence in every frame, allowing the viewer to perceive the emotional turmoil each survivor has walked through.

It Happened Here challenges viewers to evaluate their perceptions, preconceived notions, and biases about sexual assault as it demands action from institutions that have traditionally failed in upholding the rights and dignity of survivors. Hence, while the documentary highlights a disturbing reality, it is also a resounding call to action.

In conclusion, It Happened Here is a stark, powerful, and sobering documentary that not only exposes the devastating reality of campus sexual assault but also brings to light the institutional neglect surrounding this issue. It is a must-watch for anyone yearning to understand the magnitude of the problem and for those seeking a transformative step towards change. Positioned amidst this grim truth, the film leaves the audience enriched in understanding, moved to compassion, and motivated towards concerted action.