Without Arms
21 min. 13, 2004
Without Arms is the story of four women who became friends and formed a political group during college. They decided, collectively, to make a statement by cutting off their right arms. Moments after, one member (Diane), decided to have her arm surgically sewn back on. As a result, she becomes alienated by the group and is forced to return to isolation. The film is a mock documentary, tracing the group’s story through interviews with each member.
The documentary remains vague, never revealing where and when these events took place. The narrative and each character references a number of subjects (such as an action artists’ movement, a failed group of feminist activists, or even a clique of friends who rejects one member). The story’s ambiguity, however, makes it impossible to determine a single metaphor. Anonymity is created around the women, and adds to their sadness. Despite their enormous sacrifice, the group’s bold statement becomes lost and the women remain unknown for their ideas and efforts. The film may be seen as a parody of a failed artistic or political movement, and seeks to question ambition and the desperate struggle for recognition.