EXCLUSIVE: Trailer for Sheffield Doc/Fest title An Army of Women

06.11.2024 – Norwegian director Julie Lunde Lillesæter’s film follows a group of women who vow to change the laws that left their rapists unpunished

An army of women by Julie Lunde Lillesæter

After bowing at this year’s SXSW, Julie Lunde Lillesæterhis An army of women (+See also:
tow
film profile) It will have its international premiere at the upcoming Sheffield Doc/Fest (12-17 June) as part of the Rebellions festival. Norwegian filmmaker Lillesæter’s debut documentary follows a group of women in Austin, Texas, who join forces to legally challenge the system that allowed their rapists to walk free.

When Amy, Marine and Hannahhis rape cases are dismissed by the Austin police, all three try to find a way to rebuild their lives. They are joining forces with 12 other women in a groundbreaking federal class action lawsuit, the first to argue that sexual assault is not prosecuted simply because it is a crime that predominantly affects women. The group is determined to hold police and prosecutors accountable for their inaction, but their resilience is tested as they face failures in the system they hope to change. Ultimately, the film offers a hopeful look at a movement that aims to change the future of women everywhere.

Speaking to Cineuropa, Lillesæter said: “I am delighted and honored to have the film’s international premiere. An army of women at Sheffield Doc/Fest this week. Sheffield is renowned for presenting impactful documentaries, making it the perfect place to bring this story to an international audience. Although the film takes place in the US, the subject is unfortunately just as relevant in Europe. It is extremely difficult for survivors to get justice through the criminal justice system and in the UK the conviction rate for sexual assault reports is less than 2%. I hope the film can inspire reform and demonstrate that through resilience and solidarity, the systems that are failing us can be changed.”

The film was produced by Oslo-based Differ Media and was financed by the Norwegian Film Institute, Fritt Ord Foundation, Still Water Foundation, Viken Film Center, Arts Council of Norway, NRK, SVT and DR. Its international sales are handled by Together Films, based in New York and London.

Check out our exclusive trailer below: