Virginia Film Festival

In 1976, Shere Hite’s groundbreaking bestseller, The Hite Report, delved into women’s private experiences through an extensive anonymous survey. This pioneering work challenged societal views on female pleasure and reshaped society’s understanding of women’s perspectives on sex. Hite quickly gained recognition, becoming a prominent figure in gender and sex studies.

However, her research on male sexuality faced hostility upon publication, leading her to withdraw from the public eye and become largely overlooked in feminist history. Director Nicole Newnham (Crip Camp) examines Hite’s undeniable impact on modern perceptions of gender, sexuality, and bodily autonomy. Featuring narration by Dakota Johnson, The Disappearance of Shere Hite highlights Hite’s crucial role in feminist thought, offering a thoughtful rediscovery of an essential but unfairly forgotten feminist voice.

Paul Wagner (UVA) presents VAFF Chronicler Award. 

Discussion with director Nicole Newnham (VAFF Chronicler Award). Moderated by Beatrice Loayza (the New York Times, Film Comment)