AFAB - Assigned Female at Birth | Film database

Edoardo, 24, is nearing the completion of his studies in biomedical engineering in Turin. His weekends are spent in the Turin clubbing scene, places where he completely feels accepted and most true to himself. Morgan, a few years older than Edoardo, is organising a party that has quite a reputation in Italy: a play party, as he calls it, marked by irreverent tones, is part of a series of events where self-perception of sexuality and the body becomes a space for exploration. Edoardo is currently working with his psychologist to prepare all the documentation needed in order to officialise his request of changing name on his documents; Morgan behind his bold appearance is pondering on the possibility of taking testosterone, he already went through his mastectomy operation.

The party nights in Turin overlap and intertwin Morgan's and Edoardo’s lives, individuals that don’t have anything in common, anything but being assigned female at birth.

AFAB delves into the complex theme of gender identity, inviting the viewer into an unpolished side of Turin, revealing a rich soil for art and culture. The documentary follows the protagonists’ experiences keeping a close eye on their evolution, a raw portrait of joy and sorrow, conquers and search of self affirmation, expression of a new generation defining itself. The film submits thought-through dialogues on what being oneself in a traditionalist society means. AFAB takes part in an act of cultural change, giving back a deeply felt portrait of uniqueness.

More than a narration of gender affirmation experience, the documentary pushes towards infusing a stream of thoughts about the human condition: accepting one's fragilities, fighting for one's identity and finding balance in a fragmented reality.

Director

Tommaso G. Montaldo

Story

Tommaso G. Montaldo

Director of photography

Film Editor

Original Music

Sound