The Mask You Live In

The Mask You Live In follows boys and young men as they struggle to stay true to themselves while negotiating America’s narrow definition of masculinity. Written, produced and directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the film premiered at Sundance Film Festival in 2015.

There will be a Vashon one-night-only screening of The Mask You Live In on Wednesday, January 13th, 2016, at Vashon High School Theater, 7 PM. After the screening, VARSA mental health specialist Woody Pollack will lead a community discussion. Admission is free and the screening is appropriate for all ages.

The documentary presents the personal narratives of young boys and men and interviews experts in neuroscience, psychology, sociology, sports, education, and media, who further explore how gender stereotypes are interconnected with race, class, and circumstance. The Mask You Live In ultimately illustrates how we, as a society, can raise a healthier generation of boys and young men.

“Just as our culture has harmed women and girls, so too are we harming our boys, which has led to a ‘boy crisis’ in America,” said Newsom. “Our intention is that this film sparks a national conversation around masculinity and helps our boys overcome limiting stereotypes, encouraging them to stay true to themselves.”