I Am Evidence

I Am Evidence is a compelling 2017 documentary that gives a voice to those who have often been silenced or overlooked by the system. Producers Mariska Hargitay (who also features in the film) and Trish Adlesic delve into the wrenching world of America's rape kit backlog, which is far more extensive than most would want to believe. The film seeks not only to expose the shocking number of untested rape kits in the United States, but also to shed light on the survivors who have been left in the dark after such an invasive violation of their bodies and trust.

The film is titled after the powerful statement of a rape survivor, "I am evidence that regardless of what happens to you, you can get through it, you can survive." The voices of survivors like Ericka Murria, Helena Lazaro, and Amberly Kelly are heard throughout the film, driving the narrative with their deeply personal stories of survival and their fight for justice.

Directed by Geeta Gandbhir and Trish Adlesic, the movie takes cinematic techniques reminiscent of investigative journalism. It provides an intimate, in-depth investigation that goes beyond the headlines to address the victims' painful experiences, the flaws in law enforcement, and the broader systemic problems.

I Am Evidence centres around Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, who discovered over 11,000 untested rape kits in a storage facility in Detroit in 2009. Worthy's crusade for justice is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as she doggedly tackles the problem head-on, despite obstacles and lack of funding. The film also features an interview with Gail Abarbanel, the founder and director of the Rape Treatment Center at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Centre, and Richard Bell, who share sobering statistics and their observations on this tragic issue.

Also appearing in the film is former Vice President Joe Biden, who has been recognized for his work on the Violence Against Women Act. He brings his eloquence and passion to the forefront, addressing the audience and driving home the severity and obscure nature of this public problem.

I Am Evidence is a strong social commentary that raises awareness about the unaddressed sexual assault cases in America. Besides, the film also sheds light on the impacts of these violent crimes on the survivors and how they have been left hanging without closure for years owing to the unprocessed DNA evidence collected from them. The film's portrayal of this grim reality can be harsh but is essential to understand the enormous and painful backlog in America's legal system.

The film's strength lies in its boldness. It doesn't shy away from confronting institutional neglect and the cultural norms surrounding sexual assault victims. The raw emotional testimonies of the survivors depict the tremendous pain, perseverance, and resilience, refusing to let the viewer disregard their stories.

But beyond being a mere exposition of a systemic issue, I Am Evidence is a rallying cry for change, motivating its viewers to act and address the failings of the system. The film resonates a message of hope amidst the harsh reality it unveils, emphasizing that progress can be achieved when society acknowledges these issues and takes significant steps to rectify them.

The intense dedication of those fighting against the rape kit backlog, the survivors' courage and hope, and the determination to bring about changes form a significant part of the narrative, making I Am Evidence more than just a crime documentary. It is a poignant criticism of institutional failures and a beacon of hope for victims whose pursuit for justice has thus far been delayed.

This gripping exposé sears itself into the viewer’s consciousness, reminding us that every one of the untested rape kits tells a story - a living, breathing person who is awaiting justice. As the title suggests, each survivor is evidence - living proof of a crime, a testament to their profound strength, and a standing call for justice.