Powerful Short Films on Harassment: A Must-Watch Series for Every American
From Awareness Campaign to Prime-Time TV
What began as a simple campaign to raise awareness about sexual harassment has now transformed into a compelling prime-time series on Starz. Actor David Schwimmer and director Sigal Avin have collaborated to create a collection of short films that vividly dramatize real-life incidents of workplace harassment. Currently, six films are available, with more planned for future release.
The Films
The first film, titled “The Boss,” features David Schwimmer and Zawe Ashton, portraying a boss who doesn’t take “no” for an answer. Another notable film includes Emmy Rossum and Harry Lennix in an incident involving a journalist and a politician. Each film is designed to highlight the pervasive nature of harassment in various professional settings.
The Inspiration
The idea for this series came to Sigal Avin while she was working on a series of short films about sexual harassment in Israel. When she shared the concept with David Schwimmer, he was immediately eager to create something similar for an American audience. This collaboration has resulted in a powerful series that resonates with viewers across the United States.
Based on Real Incidents
Other short films in the series include “The Photographer,” “The Doctor,” “The Coworker,” and “The Actor,” all based on real incidents. These films feature renowned stars like Cynthia Nixon, Michael Kelly, and many others from popular TV series. The authenticity of these stories adds a layer of depth and relatability that is often missing in fictional portrayals.
Insights from the Set
During the filming process, David Schwimmer gained a deeper understanding of the challenges women face today. He noted that many women are unaware of being treated as sexual objects, such as when their appearance is evaluated instead of their qualifications during a job interview. Schwimmer also shared that he grew up hearing stories of sexual harassment from his mother and other women in his family, which further fueled his passion for this project.
The Impact
The films can be watched in any order, but they are all connected by a subtle shift in atmosphere when the actor, boss, coworker, doctor, photographer, or politician crosses the line, demoralizing the woman involved. According to producer Mazdak Mihr, many men are surprised after watching the films, questioning whether they have ever crossed that line themselves. Initially, the films may seem comedic, but they quickly take a darker turn, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer.
Watch the Series
You can watch the series on Starz or visit their Facebook page for more information. This series is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand the complexities and realities of workplace harassment.
