Themes and Key Words:
Human Interest, Love and Sex, Solitude
Year:
2018
Country:
USA
Running Time:
71′
Production:
Frozen Feet Films
Director:
Melody Gilbert
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Trailer
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SYNOPSIS
Silicone Soul explores the emotional connection some people have to their synthetic companions and what that means for the future of human relationships. The bonds shown are diverse and layered: from romantic relationships, to friendships, to a recreation of the love between mother and child. Silicone Soul does not allow for its subjects to be easily labeled or judged. Instead, the film is a collection of resoundingly human stories that reflect universal themes — the desire for love, compassion and communication. Ultimately, this is a film about loneliness, secrets and, perhaps, acceptance. Who are we to judge who…or what…people choose to love?
DIRECTOR’S STATEMENT
I have always been drawn to outsiders, underdogs and subcultures. I’ve made films about urban explorers, amputee-wannabes, and kids who can’t feel pain. Recently, I became interested in the growing subculture of people who live with and love life-sized and lifelike silicone dolls that look real and feel real. For the past three years, I have delved into this world. It might not be for everyone, but hopefully you’re thinking: “Fascinating.”
These are the kinds of topics and people I’m drawn to. I’m excited to have an opportunity to tell non-judgmental stories about interesting people who bravely open up and share their secrets and stories with me.
I believe this film will force people look deep inside themselves and find empathy and acceptance for those who live along the fringes of society.
Here are a few reactions to the rough cut:
“You could have so easily mocked, but you chose to tell their story with compassion.”
“All of the characters are extremely interesting.
“The way you get these folks to open up and show their genuine love for their synthetic partners was awesome.”
Psychologist and author Dr. Danielle Knafo is the only expert studying this topic. She told me that in 20 years, synthetic relationships will be normal. Think about that!
Silicone Soul is about people who live with and love dolls, yes. But ultimately, it’s a documentary about so much more. It challenges us to ask questions about who we are and where we are going as a society and portends some difficult questions for the future of human relationships.
In the end, my films don’t tell you what to think, they create conversations. I hope you will consider being a partner with me on that journey with Silicone Soul.
MORE ABOUT DIRECTOR – Melody Gilbert
Melody Gilbert has been making feature-length independent documentaries foer 15 years. Her film topics range from children who can’t feel pain to people who want to become an amputee to the former vice president of the United States. All of her films have screened at prestigious film festivals (SXSW, Thessaloniki, Hot Docs), been picked up for international distribution for broadcast TV (PBS, Sundance Channel, RTL, TVF, YLE, etc.) and VOD (iTunes and Netflix). Most recently, she has been the producer of The Starfish Throwers (2014), Women Outward Bound (2015) and executive producer for American Heart (2015/PBS). The Documentary Channel has called Melody “one of the most fearless filmmakers in contemporary documentary cinema.” Her new film, SILICONE SOUL, will be Melody’s 7th feature-length film as a director/producer/cinematographer. Trailers for all of Melody’s films here: www.frozenfeetfilms.com.
FESTIVALS & AWARDS
TBA
PRESS & REVIEWS
“Everyone who watches the film would understand the doll as a reflection of what he longs for, but is unable to find, in a real person.”
Bianca-Olivia Nita, MODERN TIMES REVIEW
Films Transit International 