Unveiling the Stigma: A Filmmaker's Journey from Trauma to Triumph
Imagine being told that a part of you is inherently evil. This is the shocking reality for many left-handed individuals, as revealed by Shih-Ching Tsou's powerful film, 'Left-Handed Girl'. But how did this belief come to be, and what impact does it have on those affected?
Tsou, a Taiwanese-American filmmaker, recalls a defining moment from her childhood in Taipei. While cooking, she instinctively reached for a knife with her left hand, only to be met with a chilling warning from her grandfather: 'The left hand is the devil's hand.' This statement, and the subsequent 'correction' to use her right hand, left an indelible mark on Tsou's psyche.
And she's not alone. Tsou's mother, also left-handed, faced similar pressure to conform. This generational trauma is at the heart of 'Left-Handed Girl', where a young Taiwanese girl, I-Jing, battles with her own 'devil's hand'. As her family faces financial struggles and personal crises, I-Jing's left hand becomes a symbol of rebellion and sin.
But here's where it gets personal: Tsou's lead actress, Nina Ye, was also naturally left-handed but had been 'corrected' by her grandmother. The crew had to retrain her to use her left hand, a stark reminder that these outdated beliefs still hold sway. And this is the part most people miss—these superstitions are not just ancient history; they continue to affect people's lives today.
The film, shot on iPhones, offers an intimate glimpse into family secrets, resilience, and the unique challenges faced by Asian women in a society that favors sons. Tsou's own experiences, like being judged for her darker skin tone, highlight the limitations and expectations women face.
Tsou's journey in film began at the New School, where she met Oscar-winning director Sean Baker. Her desire to tell the story of left-handed stigma in Taiwan led to their collaboration on 'Take Out' in 2004. Since then, Tsou has been an integral part of Baker's team, working on films like 'Tangerine' and 'The Florida Project'.
Despite the success of 'Take Out', Tsou and Baker struggled to secure funding for 'Left-Handed Girl'. The script, finished in 2010, had to wait for its moment in the spotlight. Tsou's dedication to her family, especially her daughter, also played a role in the delay.
The film has since made waves at festivals, including Cannes, and has been selected as Taiwan's entry for the Oscars. It has sparked conversations and revealed that many left-handed individuals have faced similar 'corrections'.
Tsou's film is more than just a story; it's a plea for change. She challenges viewers to question outdated traditions and create new ones that are fair to all. But is this enough? Shouldn't we also address the root causes of these superstitions and the societal pressures that maintain them?
As we reflect on Tsou's work, let's consider: What role do we play in perpetuating or challenging these beliefs? Are we doing enough to ensure a fair and inclusive society for all?
