Synopsis

It’s only recently that her name is Marianna, and she was actually born a man. And as such she led a seemingly normal life with wife and kids. She had to turn 43 years to finally take the courage not to hide her true self any longer. Call Me Marianna shows her turbulent transformation process and tells about the radical impact of gender reassignment, about social exclusion and discrimination. But the price for self-determination seems too high, considering the fact that acceptance by the society and, not less important, by her family remains unable for Marianna to obtain. A self-written play about her coming to terms with the past and a romantic relationship with an older gentleman are little glimmers of hope to escape the isolation. Filmmaker Karolina Bielawska accompanied the likeable transsexual for quite a long time on her journey. The close relationship between the director and the woman portrayed by her is noticeable in every respect. The resulting subtle narration brought the documentary among others four awards at the 55th Krakow Film Festival. “Call Me Marianna throws an analytically inspired light on our society and unlocks the protagonist’s extraordinary inner strength”, praised the jury. An exceptional individual fate and a touching clear plea for tolerance and compassion.

Guests

Karolina Bielawska

Karolina Bielawska
Director, writer Call me Marianna
In Vienna: October 9-12