Directed by Maria Finitzo • Documentary • 2020 • 118 minutes

THE DILEMMA OF DESIRE is a provocative new film helping to normalize dialogue about female sexuality. The film follows diverse, intergenerational stories of women who are shattering lies about female sexual desire, bodies and power. Artist Sophia Wallace dismantles sexual “phallusy” with her groundbreaking “cliteracy” project, proving that the clitoris is as fundamental to female orgasm as it is to gender equality. Neuroscientist Dr. Stacey Dutton is committed to studying the biology of the clitoris after encountering its erasure in major anatomy textbooks. Dr. Lisa Diamond applies her 20 years of research to help students understand the implications of sexual well-being for physical and mental health. Industrial designer Ti Chang creates innovative and elegant vibrators to combat a male-dominated industry which trivializes female pleasure. The film also spotlights young women of color as they unlearn harmful mythologies in order to reclaim their sexual and personal empowerment. THE DILEMMA OF DESIRE makes the case that the way women are viewed sexually in the world cannot be separated from the way they are treated. Sexual freedom is central to the promise of human dignity, self-determination, and equality.

"It is a fascinating exploration in female sexuality and everything it encompasses.” —Film Inquiry