The Side Effects of Normal

An intersex person who was born with genital differences and was forced to undergo a genital “normalizing” surgery that they did not consent to as a child. As a result of medical trauma, they struggle with PTSD, dysphoria and dissociation as an adult. At first, we see them struggle with their mental health – experience flashbacks, depression, discomfort with their body, etc. – however, through advocacy, sharing their story, and meeting other intersex people, they begin to enter into recovery and ultimately, a much healthier reality.

Topics Covered
Addiction, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Social Connections
Content Heads Up
Misgendering; discussion of Intersex Genital Mutilation; brief nudity; blood
Representation
Adult, LGBTQ
Film Style
Drama
Festivals & Awards bg

Festivals & Awards

Wreath
Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project

Screening

2022

Filmmaker

Mari Wrobi

Mari Wrobi (they/them) is a queer, nonbinary, intersex advocate from Sacramento, CA. They work at an LGBTQ youth shelter, advocate with interACT, and intern at the Gender Health Center. Mari educates nationwide on trans and intersex rights and enjoys spoken word and Magic: The Gathering.

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